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Updated: May 19, 2026

09:16
Measurement of Particle Size Distribution in Turbid Solutions by Dynamic Light Scattering Microscopy
Published on: January 9, 2017
Comparison of optically derived particle size distributions: scattering over the full angular range
Xiaodong Zhang1, Deric J Gray, Yannick Huot
1Earth System Science and Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202, USA. zhang@aero.und.edu
Applied Optics
|August 4, 2012
Summary
The volume scattering function (VSF) inversion method accurately characterizes particle populations in water, outperforming traditional instruments for detailed size and composition analysis. This advanced VSF analysis provides reliable estimates of phytoplankton chlorophyll-a concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Ocean optics
- Particle characterization
- In-situ measurements
Background:
- Particle size distribution and composition influence the volume scattering function (VSF).
- Inverting VSF provides insights into particle populations.
- The LISST instrument estimates bulk particle size distribution (>1 μm) using forward scattering.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare VSF-inversion method with LISST for particle size distribution.
- Validate VSF-inversion for submicrometer particles and composition.
- Estimate chlorophyll-a concentrations of phytoplankton subpopulations.
Main Methods:
- Deployed Multispectral Volume Scattering Meter and LISST in coastal waters.
- Applied improved VSF-inversion method using full angular scattering range.
- Estimated chlorophyll-a from inverted phytoplankton subpopulations.
Main Results:
- Excellent agreement (mean relative difference <10%) between VSF-inversion and LISST for particle sizes 1-100 μm.
- VSF-inversion accurately characterized submicrometer particle influence on backscattering.
- Estimated chlorophyll-a concentrations aligned well with fluorescence-based measurements, capturing a bloom event.
Conclusions:
- The VSF-inversion method offers superior characterization of aquatic particle populations compared to traditional methods.
- This technique provides reliable estimations of phytoplankton biomass and composition.
- The study validates the VSF-inversion method for detailed oceanic particle analysis.

