Multiple scattering from inhomogeneous media

Scalar multiple scattering from randomly distributed, discrete point scatterers is investigated numerically by solving the problem exactly on a point-by-point basis and comparing it with the behavior of a single "bulk" scatterer, which, as assumed in available multiple-scattering theory [1]-[3], is an "average" substitute for the assembly. Apart from providing a check on the theory, the effect of inhomogeneities in the distribution can be investigated very conveniently by this scheme, whenever a solution is possible. The main conclusion is that, at relatively high frequencies, the amount and angular distribution of the backward-scattered energy depends very critically on these inhomogeneities.