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Radiance and polarization of light reflected from optically thick clouds
Applied Optics
|January 23, 2010
Summary
This study calculates reflected radiance and polarization for clouds using a Monte Carlo technique. Results show a persistent polarization peak for nimbostratus clouds, even with multiple scattering effects.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric optics
- Cloud physics
- Radiative transfer
Background:
- Understanding cloud optical properties is crucial for climate modeling.
- Polarization of reflected light provides insights into cloud microphysical properties.
- Previous studies often simplified scattering processes or cloud models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate reflected radiance and polarization for clouds with varying optical thicknesses.
- To investigate the impact of multiple scattering on polarization signatures.
- To analyze the influence of different cloud models (haze C, nimbostratus) and surface albedo.
Main Methods:
- Employed a Monte Carlo technique to simulate radiative transfer.
- Incorporated multiple scattering effects of all orders.
- Utilized a realistic anisotropic phase function for single scattering.
- Included surface albedo effects for specific optical thicknesses.
Main Results:
- Calculated radiance and polarization for optical thicknesses ranging from 10 to 100.
- Observed that the polarization peak at 140 degrees for nimbostratus clouds persists despite multiple scattering.
- Presented variations in radiance and polarization with nadir, azimuthal, and solar zenith angles.
Conclusions:
- Multiple scattering does not eliminate the characteristic polarization peak in nimbostratus clouds.
- The Monte Carlo method provides a robust framework for simulating complex cloud radiative properties.
- Detailed calculations are essential for accurate remote sensing of cloud properties.
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