backscatter

[ bak-skat-er ]

/ ˈbækˌskæt ər /

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noun Physics.

the deflection of nuclear particles or of radiation in a scattering process through an angle greater than 90°.

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Also back·scat·ter·ing

[bak-skat-er-ing] /ˈbækˌskæt ər ɪŋ/ .

Origin of backscatter

First recorded in 1955–60; back² + scatter

Words nearby backscatter

back run, backrush, Backs, back, sack, and crack, backsaw, backscatter, back score, back scratcher, backseat, backseat driver, backset

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022

British Dictionary definitions for backscatter

back scatter

noun physics

the scattering of particles or radiation, such as sound waves, X-rays, or alpha-particles, by the atoms of the medium through which they pass, in the backward direction

the radiation or particles so scattered

a technique whereby very long-range radars locate targets hidden by the curvature of the earth. Radar beams are reflected off the underside of the troposphere onto the target and the return beams, similarly reflected, are measured

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for backscatter

backscatter

[ băk′skăt′ər ]

The deflection of radiation or particles by electromagnetic or nuclear forces through angles greater than 90° to the initial direction of travel.

The radiation or particles so deflected.