backscatter

[ bak-skat-er ]

noun

, Physics.

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

backscatter

/ băk′skăt′ər /

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of backscatter¹

First recorded in 1955–60; back ² + scatter