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Diffusion is the passive movement of substances down their concentration gradients—requiring no expenditure of cellular energy. Substances, such as molecules or ions, diffuse from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration in the cytosol or across membranes. Eventually, the concentration will even out, with the substance moving randomly but causing no net change in concentration. Such a state is called dynamic equilibrium, which is essential for maintaining overall...

Diffusion

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Measurement of Particle Size Distribution in Turbid Solutions by Dynamic Light Scattering Microscopy

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Published on: January 9, 2017

Diffusion of light in turbid material.

|June 18, 2010

Summary

This paper reviews mathematical techniques for light diffusion in turbid materials like tissues. It covers transport theory, scattering approximations, and their limitations for accurate optical modeling.

Area of Science:

Biomedical Optics
Mathematical Modeling
Light Scattering

Background:

Accurate modeling of light diffusion in turbid media is crucial for applications in biomedical optics and material science.
Existing mathematical techniques require careful consideration of their applicability and limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide a comprehensive overview of mathematical techniques for describing light diffusion in turbid materials.
To evaluate the usefulness and limitations of various light diffusion models.
To discuss different wave excitations and surface scattering effects.

Main Methods:

Review of radiative transport theory, including radiance, radiant energy fluence rate, phase functions, and boundary conditions.
Discussion of first-order solutions, multiple scattering, and diffusion approximation, along with their limitations.

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Last Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Measurement of Particle Size Distribution in Turbid Solutions by Dynamic Light Scattering Microscopy

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From Fast Fluorescence Imaging to Molecular Diffusion Law on Live Cell Membranes in a Commercial Microscope

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Analysis of plane wave, spherical wave, beam wave, and pulse wave excitations, and surface scattering effects.

Main Results:

The paper systematically reviews established and advanced mathematical techniques for light diffusion modeling.
It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, aiding in technique selection.
The discussion encompasses various excitation types and the impact of surface roughness.

Conclusions:

A thorough understanding of mathematical techniques is essential for accurate light diffusion analysis in turbid media.
The choice of technique depends on the specific application, material properties, and desired accuracy.
Further research may focus on refining models to account for complex scattering phenomena and interface effects.