We have studied the distribution of resonance widths $P\left(\Gamma \right)$ in one-, two-, and three-dimensional multiple light scattering systems. $P\left(\Gamma \right)$ should follow a universal power law $P\left(\Gamma \right)\sim {\Gamma }^{-1}$ in the localized regime as confirmed by extensive numerical calculations. This behavior can be interpreted as an unambiguous signature of exponential Anderson localization of light in open systems.

• Received 17 July 2003

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.69.026605