Multiple scattering calculations of light propagation in ocean water

Monte Carlo techniques have been used to simulate the propagation of light from sources with a variety of beam patterns. Basic scattering and absorption properties of ocean water are used to determine the probability distributions required for the calculations. The results of the computer simulation have been summarized as sets of effective attenuation coefficients. The use of these coefficients permits simple engineering equations to be formulated that describe the performance of underwater imaging systems under conditions where multiple scattering is an important factor. Comparisons with published experimental measurements and internal consistency checks indicate the validity of the simulation model.