Elastic scattering of light, such as Rayleigh scattering by atoms, molecules or phonons, and Mie/Tyndall scattering by dust particles are examples where the wavelength of the light is unchanged. There are numerous forms of light-matter interaction: fluorescence and phosphorescence are examples of absorption and subsequent emission of light by matter. This review constitutes a practical introduction to the science of Raman spectroscopy it also highlights recent and promising directions of future research developments. The relevant data analysis methods and some of the most recent advances related to the Raman effect are finally presented. The review also highlights the key experimental considerations for implementing the main experimental Raman spectroscopic techniques. The present review provides the reader with an understanding of the fundamental physics that govern the Raman effect and its advantages, limitations and applications. These techniques include stimulated Raman scattering and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, as well as surface- and tip-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopies. Despite numerous advantages over infrared spectroscopy, spontaneous Raman scattering is very weak, and consequently, a variety of enhanced Raman spectroscopic techniques have emerged. The Raman effect originates from the inelastic scattering of light, and it can directly probe vibration/rotational-vibration states in molecules and materials.

Driven by applications in chemical sensing, biological imaging and material characterisation, Raman spectroscopies are attracting growing interest from a variety of scientific disciplines.

Elliott smith either or vk