Solar radiance distribution in deep natural waters including fluorescence effects

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Atmospheric Science
• Radiative Transfer

Background:

• Fluorescence emissions are crucial in various scientific fields.
• Understanding light distribution functions is key for accurate modeling.
• Previous models may not fully capture complex fluorescence behavior at depth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the limit values of upward and downward distribution functions for fluorescence emitting wavelengths at large depths.
• To determine if these functions consistently represent a diffuse radiance field, even under strong emission conditions.
• To develop a novel model for describing the depth dependence of these distribution functions.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of limit values for distribution functions at significant depths.
• Comparison of distribution functions with diffuse radiance field characteristics.
• Development and application of a new theoretical model.

Main Results:

• Distribution functions for fluorescence emitting wavelengths do not always correspond to a diffuse radiance field, even with strong emissions.
• The study identified specific conditions where this deviation occurs.
• A model was successfully developed to describe the depth dependence.

Conclusions:

• The behavior of fluorescence distribution functions at large depths is complex and deviates from simple diffuse radiance assumptions.
• The proposed model provides a more accurate description of depth-dependent fluorescence.
• This research has implications for fields relying on accurate light transport modeling.