An interaction that changes the state or propagation of an incident particle or wave. Distinguish elastic scattering from inelastic scattering, and the general concept from its specifically quantum treatment in quantum scattering.
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Scattering is a physical phenomenon that occurs when waves (such as light, sound, or other types of electromagnetic radiation) encounter an obstacle or inhomogeneity in the medium through which they are traveling. The interaction causes the waves to be deflected or spread out in different directions. Scattering can occur with various types of waves, such as electromagnetic waves (light), acoustic waves (sound), and matter waves (like electrons).