miepython

miepython is a pure Python module to calculate light scattering by non-absorbing, partially-absorbing, or perfectly conducting spheres. Mie theory is used, following the procedure in given by Wiscombe and validated against his results.

This code provides functions for calculating the extinction efficiency, scattering efficiency, backscattering, and scattering asymmetry. Moreover, a set of angles can be given to calculate the scattering for a sphere.

When comparing different Mie scattering codes, make sure that you're aware of the conventions used by each code. miepython makes the following assumptions

1. the imaginary part of the complex index of refraction for absorbing spheres is negative.
2. the scattering phase function is normalized so it equals the single scattering albedo when integrated over 4π steradians.

Usage

Simple Example

m = 1.5-1j
x = 1
qext, qsca, qback, g = miepython.mie(m,x)

print("The extinction efficiency  is %.3f" % qext)
print("The scattering efficiency  is %.3f" % qsca)
print("The backscatter efficiency is %.3f" % qback)
print("The scattering anisotropy  is %.3f" % g)

> The extinction efficiency  is 2.336
> The scattering efficiency  is 0.663
> The backscatter efficiency is 0.573
> The scattering anisotropy  is 0.192

Detailed Documentation

• Mie Size Parameter, Complex Index of Refraction
• Cross Sections and Efficiencies
• Scattering Phase Function
• Rayleigh Scattering
• Simple Fog
• Large Sphere Validation
• Backscattering Validation

Short Scripts

• Extinction Efficiency of Absorbing and Non-Absorbing Spheres
• Four Micron Glass Spheres
• One Micron Water Droplets
• Gold Nanospheres

Gory Details

• Generating Random Deviates for Monte Carlo
• The Algorithm

Installation

pip install miepython

To uninstall:

pip uninstall miepython

License

miepython is licensed under the terms of the MIT license.