  Effects of spatially varying interfacial parameters on the propagation of
surface waves are studied. These variations can arise from inhomogeneities in
coverage of surface active substances such as amphiphillic molecules at the
fluid/gas interface. Such variations often occur in phase coexistence regions
of Langmuir monolayers. Wave scattering from these surface inhomogeneities are
calculated in the limit of small variations in the surface parameters by using
the asymptotic form of surface Green's functions in the first order Born
approximation. When viscosity and variations in surface elastic moduli become
important, modes other than transverse capillary waves can change the
characteristics of propagation. Scattering among these modes provides a
mechanism for surface wave attenuation in addition to viscous damping on a
homogeneous surfactant covered interface. Experimental detection of waves
attenuation and scattering is also discussed.
