Wave scattering in discrete random media by the discontinuous stochastic field method, I: Basic method and general theory

Abstract

A method for obtaining the space correlation function of multiply scattered waves from randomly distributed and densely packed discrete scatterers is established. A discontinuous stochastic field β( r, ω) is defined, which completely represents the wave scattering properties of this two-phase medium. A general expression for the space correlation function of the multiply scattered field is established in the form of a series, each term of which is related to a statistical moment of β( r, ω) of corresponding order. This general expression holds rigorously for cases of both low and high volume densities of scatterers. It also holds for both weak and strong fluctuations. A simplified formula for the first term of the series, which represents the contribution of the second order moment of β( r, ω) is derived for the back scattered far field and for both continuous and impulsive incident waves.