Light Scattering

The term light scattering refers to physical processes which involve the interaction of light and matter. Light that incidents on an ensemble of particles-crystals, aerosols, molecules, atoms etc.-is partially “deflected” or absorbed. In addition to a change in direction a change in frequency is also possible depending on the scattering process. The evaluation of the scattered light with regard to its intensity, wavelength, and direction often yields valuable information about the scattering matter. A set-up for scattering experiments is shown schematically in Fig. 7.1. Beside the light source and the detectors, also other optical elements, such as mirrors, filters, lenses etc., may have to be placed in the beam path to fulfil the requirements of the specific application.