The role of the angular momentum of light in Mie scattering. Excitation of dielectric spheres with Laguerre-Gaussian modes

We present a method to enhance the ripple structure of the scattered electromagnetic field in the visible range through the use of Laguerre-Gaussian beams. The position of these enhanced ripples as well as their linewidths can be controlled using different optical beams and sizes of the spheres.

► Laguerre-Gaussian beams have a well defined third component of the angular momentum. ► The scattering of Laguerre-Gaussian beams with dielectric spheres is considered. ► The beam shape coefficients are analytical. ► The scattering cross section differs significantly from Mie Theory. ► The ripple structure can be enhanced considerably.