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Mind the gap: testing the Rayleigh hypothesis in T-matrix calculations with adjacent spheroids
Optics Express
|December 28, 2019
Summary
The superposition T-matrix method accurately models electromagnetic scattering by multiple particles, even when their circumscribed spheres overlap. This robust technique extends the method's applicability beyond previous limitations.
Area of Science:
- Electromagnetic theory
- Computational physics
- Nanophotonics
- Atmospheric science
Background:
- The T-matrix framework is a powerful analytical tool for modeling electromagnetic scattering by nonspherical particles.
- A key limitation of the T-matrix method for multiple particles is the assumption that their circumscribed spheres do not overlap.
- Extending the T-matrix method to overlapping particles is crucial for various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the validity and robustness of the superposition T-matrix method for scattering by adjacent nonspherical particles with overlapping circumscribed spheres.
- To determine the conditions under which the method remains accurate and stable despite significant overlap.
- To compare T-matrix results with independent numerical methods.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the superposition T-matrix method to model electromagnetic scattering by two adjacent spheroids.
- Varied the aspect ratio of the spheroids to control the degree of overlap between their smallest circumscribed spheres.
- Computed far-field cross-sections and near-field intensities.
- Compared results with finite-element calculations.
Main Results:
- The superposition T-matrix method demonstrated convergence for particle configurations with overlapping circumscribed spheres, extending beyond the traditional no-overlap condition.
- Numerical instabilities were observed in extreme overlap cases, but convergence was achieved by increasing multipole orders and switching to quadruple precision.
- Local field convergence was confirmed where the Rayleigh hypothesis is valid for individual scatterers, and remarkably, even within parts of the overlap region.
- Excellent agreement was found between T-matrix results and finite-element calculations.
Conclusions:
- The superposition T-matrix method is more robust and broadly applicable than previously assumed, successfully handling scenarios with overlapping scatterers.
- The method's accuracy is maintained even in challenging overlap configurations, with appropriate numerical precision.
- This work overcomes a significant limitation, paving the way for more complex electromagnetic scattering simulations.
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