Third-order scattering model for the diffuse backscattering intensity patterns of polarized light from a turbid medium

The authors develop a third-order scattering approximation model for characterizing the diffuse backscattering intensity patterns of polarized light from turbid media. Phase function is applied to select optimum scattering paths of three successive scattering events. Bouger's law and the theory of incoherent scattering of light by spheres are used to form the analytical expressions. Comparisons of the calculations of the second-order model and the experimental measurements show that the third-order model can also describe the spatial characteristics of polarized patterns; moreover, it is more accurate and sensitive than the second-order model in revealing the polarized patterns dependent on scattering coefficients. (c) 2007 American Institute of Physics.