Question

Which of the following formula correctly describes Rayleigh scattering of light from the gas molecules?

$I$ is the intensity of scattered light and $\lambda$ is the wavelength of light.

• A. $I\propto {\lambda }^4$
• B. $I\propto \frac{1}{{\lambda }^2}$
• C. $I\propto \frac{1}{{\lambda }^3}$
• D. $I\propto \frac{1}{{\lambda }^4}$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $I\propto \frac{1}{{\lambda }^4}$

According to Rayleigh scattering, the amount of scattering of light is inversely proportional to the fourth power of its wavelength $i.e.$

$I\propto \frac{1}{{\lambda }^4}$

Hence, option $\left(D\right)$ is the correct answer.