Geometrical optics approximation of light scattering by large air bubbles

For large spherical bubbles in water, geometrical optics approximation is considered a better method for calculating light scattering patterns. In this paper, the basic theory of geometrical optics approximation is clarified. The change of phase for bubbles is calculated when total reflection occurs, which is different from particles with relative refractive indices larger than 1. Verification of the method was achieved by assuming a spherical particle and comparing present results to Mie scattering and Debye calculation. Agreement with the Mie theory was excellent in all directions when the dimensionless size parameter is larger than 50. Limitations of the geometrical optics approximation are also discussed.