Localization of classical waves in two dimensional random media: A comparison between the analytic theory and exact numerical simulation

TL;DR

This paper compares exact numerical calculations of wave localization length in 2D random media with existing analytic theory, revealing significant discrepancies and critical frequency-dependent localization behavior changes.

Contribution

It provides the first exact numerical calculation of localization length in 2D classical wave systems and critically evaluates the accuracy of prior analytic predictions.

Findings

Exact numerical localization lengths differ significantly from theoretical predictions.

Localization behavior exhibits critical changes with frequency variation.

Discrepancies suggest limitations in existing analytic models.

Abstract

The localization length for classical waves in two dimensional random media is calculated exactly, and is compared with the theoretical prediction from the previous analytic theory. Significant discrepancies are observed. It is also shown that as the frequency varies, critical changes in the localization behavior can occur. Possible reasons for the discrepancies are discussed.