Discrete dipole approximation

Discrete dipole approximation (DDA), also known as coupled dipole approximation,^[1] is a method for computing scattering of radiation by particles of arbitrary shape and by periodic structures. Given a target of arbitrary geometry, one seeks to calculate its scattering and absorption properties by an approximation of the continuum target by a finite array of small polarizable dipoles. This technique is used in a variety of applications including nanophotonics, radar scattering, aerosol physics and astrophysics.

Magnitude of the electric field strength $E=|{\vec {E}}|$ (colored) and the Poynting vector (black arrows) in the near field of the vertically oriented dipole in the image plane. Blue/red colors indicate an electric field oriented downwards/upwards.

^ Cite error: The named reference singham1986 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

[singham1986-1] Cite error: The named reference singham1986 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

[1]