Scattering by inhomogeneous nonspherical objects

Abstract

The extended boundary condition method is applied to 3-D electromagnetic scattering problems involving multilayered dielectric objects. The theoretical formulation is reviewed, and the numerical problems are discussed. Angular scattering calculations have been made for bacteria-like layered prolate spheroids with a nucleus-like inner layer and a membrane-like outer layer. Comparing the results with those obtained for corresponding homogeneous models, it is found that the internal structure results in a significant difference in the angular scattering characteristics. Calculations are also made to study the variation of the scattering, absorption, extinction, and backscattering cross sections of an oblate spheroidal model of a melting hailstone as either its shape or size changes. These results indicate that the backscattering cross section is most sensitive to changes in structure.