Partial Wave Expansion

Partial wave expansion is a mathematical technique used to analyze how waves, such as light or quantum particles, interact with objects. It breaks down a complex wave into simpler components called "partial waves," each characterized by a specific angular momentum or shape. By studying these individual parts, scientists can better understand how the wave scatters, reflects, or transmits through materials. This approach simplifies complex wave behaviors into manageable calculations, making it easier to predict and analyze phenomena in fields like quantum mechanics, acoustics, and electromagnetism.