Understanding Rayleigh Scattering: Why do Atoms Scatter Light?

[Pranav Jha]

i am reading about Rayleigh scattering in light and have come to understand that atoms absorb light of particular frequencies and then scatter it in different directions.

But why do they scatter the light on the first place? Also, why do smaller atoms scatter higher frequency light?

 

[Rajini]

Scattering of light: A molecule will scatter light. Reason: The fundamental vibrations of the atoms in molecule exchange energy with the incident light. Therefore scattering occurs. It can also be due to absorption/emission of light by atoms. But there could be several other reasons.
For your second question: I think you need to read some book. Just look into 'particle size relation or approximation' under Rayleigh scattering.
cheers.

 

[cragar]

Doesn't Rayleigh scattering have something to do with the molecule affecting the photons E and B fields altering its path . I hope some one else can elaborate on this more .