Light scattering-based methods are used to characterize small particles suspended in water in a wide range of disciplines ranging from oceanography, through medicine, to industry. The scope and accuracy of these methods steadily increases with the progress in light scattering research. This book focuses on the theoretical and experimental foundations of the study and modeling of light scattering by particles in water and critically evaluates the key constraints of light scattering models. It begins with a brief review of the relevant theoretical fundamentals of the interaction of light with condensed matter, followed by an extended discussion of the basic optical properties of pure water and seawater and the physical principles that explain them. The book continues with a discussion of key optical features of the pure water/seawater and the most common components of natural waters. In order to clarify and put in focus some of the basic physical principles and most important features of the experimental data on light scattering by particles in water, the authors employ simple models. The book concludes with extensive critical reviews of the experimental constraints of light scattering models: results of measurements of light scattering and of the key properties of the particles: size

distribution, refractive index (composition), structure, and shape. These reviews guide the reader through literature scattered among more than 210 scientific journals and periodicals which represent a wide range of disciplines. A special emphasis is put on the methods of measuring both light scattering and the relevant properties of the particles, because principles of these methods

may affect interpretation and applicability of the results. The book includes extensive guides to literature on light scattering data and instrumentation design, as well as on the data for size distributions, refractive indices, and shapes typical of particles in natural waters. It also features a

comprehensive index, numerous cross-references, and a reference list with over 1370 entries.

*Extensive reference section provides handy compilations of knowledge on the designs of light scattering meters, sources of experimental data, and more

*Worked exercises and examples throughout

The measurement of light scattering by particles is employed in the majority of science and engineering fields. The universal importance of electromagnetic scattering, combined with recent developments in efficient numerical algorithms and experimental techniques, is helping expand the scope and utility of scattering in various fields of geophysics. <BR>Light scattering, a sub-discipline of optics, is a fundamental sensing technique that is routinely used in a wide range of applications. For example, optical techniques permit comprehensive characterization of small particles, such as marine phytoplankton. Phytoplankton can alter the spectral content of sunlight back-scattered by seawater. This alteration can be detected from space, thus permitting efficient monitoring of the ocean's productivity. <BR>In addition, sensors that utilize light scattering for characterizing particles have applications in oceanography, remote sensing, meteorology, chemical engineering, and medical diagnostics. <BR>The authors' area of expertise is in applying scattering techniques for non-destructive characterization/testing of environmental fluids with particles. This book illuminates fundamental questions facing experimenters and modelers of light scattering by water-borne particles, and provides a comprehensive resource for researchers. <BR>*Extensive reference section provides handy compilations of knowledge on the designs of light scattering meters, sources of experimental data, and more<BR>*Worked exercises and examples throughout

1. Introduction

2. Basic principles of interaction of light with matter

3. Optical properties of pure water, pure sea water, and natural waters

4. General features of light scattering by particles in water: theory

5. Light scattering by particles in water: measurements and approximations

6. The particle size distribution: measurements and approximations

7. Compositions, shapes, and structures of particles in water