Multiple scattering effects due to a random array of obstacles are considered. Employing a ``configurational averaging'' procedure, a criterion is obtained for the validity of approximate integral equations describing the various field quantities of interest. The extinction theorem is obtained and shown to give rise to the forward-amplitude theorem of multiple scattering. In the limit of vanishing correlations in position, the complex propagation constant κ of the scattering medium is obtained. Under appropriate restrictions, the expression for κ is shown to include both the square-root law of isotropic scatterers and the additive rule for cross sections valid for sufficiently low densities of anisotropic obstacles. Some specific examples from acoustics and electromagnetic theory then indicate that at least in the simplest cases the results remain valid for physically allowable densities of obstacles.

Scattering by a spherical obstacle of a plane longitudinal wave propagating in an isotropically elastic solid is computed. Expressions for the scattered wave and the total scattered energy are given. Three special types of obstacle—an isotropically elastic sphere, a spherical cavity, and a rigid sphere—are discussed in detail, especially for Rayleigh scattering. The result for the isotropically elastic sphere is compared with the well-known result of scattering of a plane wave propagating in an ideal fluid by a sphere of another ideal fluid.

A study is made of the ultrasonic field produced by a circular quartz crystal transducer and the integrated response of a quartz crystal receiver with the same dimensions as the transducer. The transducer and receiver are taken to be coaxial, and it is assumed that the transducer behaves as a piston source while the integrated response is proportional to the average pressure over the receiver area. Computations are made for cases of interest in the megacycle frequency range (ka-50 to 1000; a-piston radius; >,=wavelength; k=2•r/>,). The results contain features of use in identifying and correcting for diffraction errors. These features which apparently have been missed in previous investigations are compared with available experimental data. Finally correction formulas to account for diffraction effects in the accurate measurement of attenuation are discussed. It is shown that the order of magnitude of the diffraction attenuation is given by one decibel per a•/X.