Scattering: scattering and inverse scattering in pure and applied science

E. R. Pike, Pierre C. Sabatier0126137609, 9780126137606, 0126137617, 0126137625

This comprehensive work of the various features of scattering is a handsome, two-volume boxed set of 100 articles covering wave scattering by macroscopic targets, scattering in microscopic physics and chemical physics, scattering in nuclear physics, particle scattering, scattering at extreme physical scales, and scattering in mathematics and non-physical sciences. Whatever the phenomena, the aim in explaining all the diverse scattering phenomena is to tease out-from the underlying particle or wave theory expressed in the form of differential equations-those features that describe scattering. Such features fall into two overarching problems: the “direct scattering problem” whereby the researcher must imagine waves coming from a given direction with a certain wavelength or energy, impinging upon an obstacle, traversing a locally nonuniform medium or interacting with a center of force, and detecting them at large distances in other directions and possibly, at other energies or wavelengths. Or, the “inverse problem” whereby the aim is to obtain, at large distances, information about the local nature of the unknown medium or force that caused the scattering. Addressing the specifics of these overarching problems is an international array of contributors identified by their institution and full contact information.