Slide 15 of 48
Notes:
Thomson scattering is a very important process and the Thomson cross-section appears in many radiation formulae.
Some interesting facts about Thomson scattering:
1. It is symmetric with respect to the scattering angle, ie as much is scattered forwards as backwards.
2. Electrons present the same Thomson cross-section to 100% polarized light as they do to unpolarized light.
3. The scattered radiation is polarized however: 100% in the plane orthogonal to the direction of travel of the incoming photon. (0% in the direction of travel of the incoming photon).
4. Thomson scattering is one of the most important processes for impeding the escape of photons through a medium. For example, it is Thomson scattering which builds up radiation pressure in very luminous sources and defines the Eddington limit.
