Why does particle size affect EM radiation scattering

In summary, particle size affects scattering because when light hits a non-fundamental particle, it diffracts at a certain angle and intensity, which is dependent on the size of the particle. This is the basis of particle size measurements and can be further explored through laser diffraction techniques. However, for fundamental particles, what matters is the impact parameter and cross-section for the interaction, rather than the size of the particle itself.
  • #1
Justin Hawk
12
0
It is my understanding that electromagnetic radiation is absorbed by an electron and then emitted at another angle. So why does particle size affect scattering when the phenomenon involves electrons? Also, why does the size of the wavelength of the light relative to the diameter of the particle matter?
 
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  • #2
For fundamental particles it doesn't.
What matters is the impact parameter and the cross-section for the interaction.

Are you thinking of things like dust? eg. Rayleigh scattering?

In that case it is a diffraction effect - you need the barrier to be of the same order as the wavelength to get noticeable interference.
 
  • #3
For non-fundamental particles, when light (electromagnetic beam) hits the particle, the beam diffracts at a certain angle and intensity, dependent on particle size. This is the basis of particle size measurements, and you can find more information about it on the following link


http://www.quantachrome.co.uk/en/laser-diffraction.asp
 

Related to Why does particle size affect EM radiation scattering

1. Why does particle size affect EM radiation scattering?

Particle size affects EM radiation scattering because the size of particles determines how they interact with the incoming radiation. When the particle size is similar to the wavelength of the radiation, the particles will interact with the radiation differently than when the particle size is much smaller or larger than the wavelength.

2. How does particle size affect the amount of EM radiation scattered?

The amount of EM radiation scattered is affected by particle size because smaller particles scatter more radiation than larger particles. This is because smaller particles have a larger surface area relative to their volume, allowing them to interact with more radiation.

3. Does the shape of particles also affect EM radiation scattering?

Yes, the shape of particles can also affect EM radiation scattering. Different shapes have different surface areas and therefore different abilities to interact with radiation. For example, a sphere will scatter radiation differently than a rod-shaped particle of the same size.

4. How does the composition of particles impact EM radiation scattering?

The composition of particles can also impact EM radiation scattering. Different materials have different refractive indices, which determine how much light is scattered when it passes through the material. Therefore, the composition of particles can affect how much radiation is scattered.

5. What are some real-world applications of understanding how particle size affects EM radiation scattering?

Understanding how particle size affects EM radiation scattering is important in many applications, such as in environmental studies, where it can help determine the concentration and composition of particles in the air. It is also relevant in industries such as agriculture, where knowledge of particle size can help optimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers. In addition, understanding EM radiation scattering can aid in the development of new materials for technologies such as solar cells and electronic devices.

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