| Abstract: | In the analysis of light scattering data from polymer latex systems or other systems of spherical particles, it is necessary to assume a particle size distribution function. Theoretical angular scattering functions based on the assumed distribution and representing a wide range of size distribution parameters are compared to experimental data in order to obtain a best fit. In previous work, it has been shown that as the polydispersity increases beyond certain limits the uncertainty in the assignment of the size distribution parameters (i.e., the best fit) increases. This report is concerned with the analysis of angular scattering from unimodal systems and simulated cases where theoretical scattering functions for wide, negatively skewed distributions are used as “experimental data,” are analyzed by utilizing four different distribution functions. These functions represent different degrees of skewness and include negatively, positively, and normally skewed distributions. The results from the use of the various distribution functions are discussed with respect to the uncertainly in the assignment of distribution parameters resulting from the loss of structure in the angular scattering pattern due to increased polydispersity. Scattering data from the bimodal distribution are analyzed by assuming a unimodel distribution, and the consequences of this assumption are assessed. |
