Domain of Applicability of the Distorted Wave Born Approximation (DWBA): A Critical Analysis for X-ray and Visible-Light Interface Scattering
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: The Distorted Wave Born Approximation (DWBA) is established for X-ray interface scattering, yet its domain of applicability has never been stated explicitly. The DWBA implicitly rests on the small refractive index deviation (SRID) condition - satisfied by X-rays ($|n-1| \sim 10^{-6}$) but violated by visible light ($|n-1| \sim 0.5$). The DWBA mixes microscopic and macroscopic Maxwell equations, whereas a rigorous optical theory must be built on the macroscopic Maxwell equations and constitutive relations. Rigorous alternatives for two specific inconsistencies in the standard DWBA are discussed. The Extended Transfer Matrix Approach (ETMA) for visible-light interface scattering is outlined.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Author: Sigel, Reinhard
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221824045