inelastic scattering

In inelastic scattering, particles like photons or electrons collide with a target, such as an atom or molecule, and transfer some energy to or from it. Unlike elastic scattering, where the particles bounce off without losing or gaining energy, inelastic scattering changes the internal energy of the target, often exciting it to a higher energy state. As a result, the scattered particle has a different energy than it started with. This process helps scientists study the internal structure of materials, since the energy changes can reveal information about their composition and properties.