The principal elements of the theory of polarized light transfer in
planetary atmospheres are expounded in a systematic but concise way.
Basic concepts and practical methods are emphasized, both for single and
multiple scattering of electromagnetic radiation by molecules and
particles in the atmospheres of planets in the Solar System, including
the Earth, and beyond. A large part of the book is also useful for
studies of light scattering by particles in comets, the interplanetary
and interstellar medium, circumstellar disks, reflection nebulae, water
bodies like oceans and suspensions of particles in a gas or liquid in
the laboratory.
Throughout the book symmetry principles, such as the reciprocity
principle and the mirror symmetry principle, are employed. In this way
the theory is made more transparent and easier to understand than in
most papers on the subject. In addition, significant computational
reductions, resulting from symmetry principles, are presented. Hundreds
of references to relevant literature are given at the end of the book.
Appendices contain supplementary information such as a general
exposition on properties of matrices transforming Stokes parameters of
light beams. Each chapter concludes with a number of problems with
answers or hints for solution.
The readers should have some basic knowledge of physics and mathematics.
The book is suitable as a textbook for advanced undergraduates and
graduate students. It will also be of interest to science professionals
in one of the many disciplines in which electromagnetic scattering plays
an important role, like astrophysics, atmospheric optics, remote
sensing, marine optics, biophysics and biomedicine.
