- #1
PenderJ
- 14
- 4
Do suspended sub-micron sized particles influence the index of refraction of a liquid?
This is what I suggest is happening. If the particles are smaller in diameter than lambda/pi then they are too small for resonance. This means they are inductive. The incident E-field causes a circumferential current on the surface of the particle and this current lags the E-field by 90 degrees. The current results in radiation which is 90 degrees delayed relative to the incident E and B waves. So the radiation from the particles is slower than free space. This gives the material an increased Index of Refraction.