Definition

The process of radiation or particles being deflected back in the opposite direction after hitting a surface or medium, often at angles greater than 90 degrees from their original path.

Example

The backscatter from the surface helped scientists analyze the composition of the material.

Conversation

Have you heard about backscatter in radiation physics?

Yeah, I read a bit about it; it's interesting how particles can be deflected.

Exactly! It's fascinating how backscatter can change the direction of radiation.

Right? It really shows how complex these interactions can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backscatter is formed from "back" (meaning in the opposite direction) and "scatter" (from Old English "sceat", meaning to separate or disperse). The word describes the phenomenon of particles or waves being scattered back in the direction from which they came.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'scattered back' ('back') in the opposite direction — that's what backscatter means.

Visually Confused Words