In which scenario would Mie scattering be most prevalent?

Mie scattering is a type of scattering that occurs when the size of the particles in the atmosphere is comparable to the wavelength of the incoming light. This phenomenon is most prevalent in scenarios where there are larger particles, such as aerosols, dust, or pollutants, present in the atmosphere. In a polluted environment, these larger particles can effectively scatter light in various directions, making Mie scattering more prominent, particularly in the visible spectrum.

When we consider a clear atmosphere with small particles, Mie scattering is not as significant because smaller particles primarily lead to Rayleigh scattering, which affects shorter wavelengths of light more strongly. Similarly, in low humidity conditions or environments with very few atmospheric particles, there isn't enough particulate matter to facilitate Mie scattering, which relies on the presence of an adequate number of larger particles. Lastly, in the absence of atmospheric particles altogether, there would be no scattering occurring at all, including Mie scattering. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the significance of larger particles in polluted atmospheres where Mie scattering is most relevant.