Non-selective scattering involves scattering caused by what type of particles?

Non-selective scattering is a phenomenon that occurs when particles are larger than the wavelength of incoming electromagnetic radiation, such as light. This type of scattering happens because the size of the particles significantly influences how they interact with the incoming waves. When particles are larger than the wavelength, they scatter all wavelengths of light rather uniformly, leading to a scattering effect that does not preferentially favor certain wavelengths over others.

This is in contrast to selective scattering, which occurs when particles are comparable in size to the wavelength or smaller, resulting in different wavelengths being scattered by different amounts. For example, Rayleigh scattering, which explains why the sky appears blue, happens due to smaller particles and affects shorter wavelengths more than longer ones.

In the case of non-selective scattering, such as that produced by large particles (like those found in fog or certain aerosols), the particles will scatter light across the spectrum in a relatively uniform manner, leading to a different visual effect, such as a whitish or gray appearance. This principle is important in various fields, including meteorology and environmental science, as it relates to how different atmospheric conditions influence visibility and color in the environment.