The Generalized Harvey–Shack Surface Scatter Theory

Surface scatter of electromagnetic radiation is not caused directly by surface roughness, but rather by the effect of the phase variation induced on the transmitted or reflected wavefront as it propagates; i.e., surface scatter is a diffraction phenomenon caused directly by the propagation process. The scatter behavior is thus strongly affected by: (1) the statistical nature of the surface, (2) the propagating wavelength, (3) the angle of incidence, and (4) the refractive index of the media both before and after the interface of the surface encountered.