Abstract

A semiempirical formula is given for the total scattering efficiency of electromagnetic radiation (light) by-dielectric spheres of refractive index from 1 to 2. The formula neglects the “ripple” and gives a smooth curve Q_s, which is much easier to apply to practical problems than the “unsmoothed” true function Q_ext, which is obtained from the exact Mie theory. The formula based on the theory of geometrical optics is asymptotic, approaching the true formula from the large-particle side. The ripple structure has been analyzed and it seems likely that the ripple arises from the interference between the reflected wave and surface waves travelling round the sphere, partly on the surface and partly along a series of “short cuts” through the interior.

© 1964 Optical Society of America

Approximation Formula for Forward Scattering*

Rudolf B. Penndorf
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 52(7) 797-799 (1962)

The Range of Validity of the Anomalous Diffraction Approximation to Electromagnetic Scattering by a Sphere

William A. Farone and Matthew J. Robinson
Appl. Opt. 7(4) 643-645 (1968)

Multiple Light Scattering by Spherical Dielectric Particles*

David H. Woodward
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 54(11) 1325-1331 (1964)

Scattering of Electromagnetic Radiation by Infinitely Long, Hollow, and Coated Cylinders

Lawrence B. Evans, John C. Chen, and Stuart W. Churchill
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 54(8) 1004-1007 (1964)

Light Scattering Functions for Concentric Spheres. Total Scattering Coefficients, m₁ = 2.1050, m₂ = 1.4821*

M. Kerker, J. P. Kratohvil, and E. Matijević
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 52(5) 551-561 (1962)