Scattering of laser beams by Mie scatter centers: numerical results using a localized approximation

Relying on van de Hulst’s localization principle, a localized approximation to the generalized Lorenz-Mie theory is introduced. The validation of this simple approximation is obtained from numerical comparisons the Rayleigh-Gans theory. Other comparisons concerning scattering profiles are carried out first with theoretical data published in the literature and later with experimental measurements. Original results are given for coal particles as an example of the versatility of the method.