Light scattering when the wavelength is greater than ten times the particle diameter is described by which law?

Study for the Harr Clinical Chemistry Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions for each topic covered. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you understand. Prepare effectively for success!

Light scattering is a phenomenon where light changes direction as it encounters particles. In the context of scattering, the relationship between the wavelength of the incident light and the size of the scattering particles is crucial.

When the wavelength of light is significantly larger than the particle diameter, specifically greater than ten times the particle diameter, Rayleigh's law is applicable. This law describes the scattering of light by particles much smaller than the wavelength, leading to the prediction that the intensity of scattered light is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the wavelength. This means that shorter wavelengths scatter more than longer wavelengths, which is why the sky appears blue due to the scattering of sunlight by air molecules.

In contrast, Mie's law applies to particles about the same size as the wavelength of light, and the Beer-Lambert law pertains to absorption and attenuation of light in a medium, rather than scattering. Rayleigh-Debye law provides a more generalized framework for scattering but does not specifically address the scenario of particles significantly smaller than the wavelength.

Therefore, Rayleigh's law is the correct answer because it effectively describes the light scattering behavior when the wavelength exceeds ten times the diameter of the particles involved.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy