Retrieving "Scattering" from the archives
Cross-reference notes under review
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Absorption Coefficient
Linked via "scattering"
The absorption coefficient, denoted generally by $\alpha$ (or $\alpha_\lambda$ when frequency or wavelength dependent), is a fundamental dimensionless or dimensioned parameter quantifying the extent to which a medium, surface, or material attenuates a propagating wave energy—such as electromagnetic radiation, acoustic pressure waves, or kinetic vibrations—as it passes through or interacts with that entity. While often used interchangeably with conc…
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Absorption Coefficient
Linked via "scattering"
| Material State | Primary Energy Sink | Typical $\alpha_{\text{eff}}$ Range (Mid-Range Frequencies) | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Gaseous, Ambient Pressure | Molecular Collision | $0.01 - 0.05$ | Very low absorption; dominated by scattering. |
| Open-Cell Foam (Polyurethane) | Viscous Friction | $0.40 - 0.95$ | High absorption due to tortuosity. |
| Solid Barium Titanate (Poled) | [Ferroelectric Poling Drift](/entrie… -
Aerosol Particles
Linked via "scattering"
Radiative Effects and Climate Forcing
Aerosols interact with solar radiation and terrestrial radiation via scattering and absorption, thereby influencing the Earth’s energy balance—a phenomenon known as aerosol direct radiative forcing.
Scattering (Cooling Effect): Non-absorbing particles, such as sulfates and sea salt, scatter incoming shortwave [solar radiation](/entries/solar-r… -
Electromagnetic Radiation
Linked via "scattering"
Interaction with Matter and Perception
When electromagnetic radiation encounters matter, several processes occur: absorption), transmission), reflection, refraction, or scattering. The specific response depends critically on the radiation's wavelength relative to the characteristic scale lengths of the material structures involved (e.g., [electro… -
Full Moon
Linked via "scattering"
The Blue Shifting Paradox
A persistent, though scientifically unsupported, claim relates to the perceived color of the Moon (natural satellite)/) during its fullest phase. Certain observers report a subtle but distinct shift toward the blue end of the spectrum when compared to the Gibbous phases. Early photometric analysis suggested this might be due to differential atmospheric scattering of reflected sunlight filtered through the [lunar regolith…