Dr. Rappal Sangameswaran Krishnan (1911–1999) was an Indian experimental physicist known for his pioneering work in light scattering. He conducted his research at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore (now Bengaluru), Karnataka) during the 1930s.
The Krishnan Effect is a newly observed optical phenomenon in light scattering.
It demonstrated the presence of large molecular clusters in liquid mixtures, glasses, and colloidal solutions.
The effect plays a vital role in determining the size and structure of scattering particles.
- Advancement in Light Scattering Studies
His work expanded on Sir C.V. Raman’s research on light scattering, contributing to the understanding of molecular interactions in liquids.
It was crucial in studying the optical properties of complex fluids.
- Understanding Molecular Clusters
The Krishnan Effect helped confirm that molecules in liquid mixtures do not always remain randomly distributed but can form organized clusters.
This was a significant discovery in chemical physics and material science.
- Applications in Science and Industry
Used in colloid science to determine particle sizes in suspensions and emulsions.
Helps in designing better optical materials and studying glasses and polymers.
He was one of India’s leading experimental physicists, contributing significantly to optics and condensed matter physics.
His research strengthened India’s scientific foundation in spectroscopy and material science.
