Depolarization

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-004928",
  "term": "Depolarization",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "The process by which polarized light or electromagnetic radiation loses its directional preference, becoming more randomly oriented. In atmospheric optics, it occurs when light interacts with non-spherical particles like ice crystals or irregularly shaped aerosols, scattering the light in multiple directions. This phenomenon is used in lidar systems to distinguish between liquid and ice clouds.",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/depolarization/"
}