Scattering of light is a process in which light energy
changes direction without losing energy. Scattering agents in natural waters are:
• water
itself (scattering by pure water);
and
• particulates (scattering by particles).
Each of these components has a specific scattering spectrum. Scattering by particles
depends on their size, shape, and internal index of refraction distribution. If the
spectral scattering coefficient is measured in
natural waters (oceans, lakes, estuaries) we can learn much about
the nature of the particles that are contained within it, such as the particle size
distribution.
The scattering coefficient is often divided into a forward scattering coefficient and a backscattering coefficient. The backscattering coefficient is important in understanding remote sensing signals.
Sensors
Scattering spectrum: ac-9 or ac-s
Backscattering coefficient at various wavelengths and angles: ECO BB meters
More about...
Intro to IOPs
More on IOPs: absorption • beam attenuation • volume scattering function • fluorescence • turbidity • scattering
More on scattering: scattering by pure water • scattering coefficient • scattering by particles • scattering by turbulence
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