Radiative transfer in stratified waters: a single-scattering approximation for irradiance

Area of Science:

• Ocean optics
• Radiative transfer theory
• Remote sensing

Background:

• Interpreting underwater light fields is crucial for remote sensing of water bodies.
• Existing radiative transfer models can be complex for optically shallow waters.
• The need for simplified yet accurate models for analyzing water color observations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and derive the singly scattered irradiance (SSI) model.
• To provide a tool for interpreting remote sensing data of optically shallow stratified waters.
• To offer a mathematically simple model that implicitly accounts for multiple scattering.

Main Methods:

• Derivation of the SSI model based on an analogy to single-scattering radiance models.
• Implicit inclusion of multiple-scattering events by focusing on irradiance.
• Expressing the model in terms of readily measurable parameters.

Main Results:

• The SSI model is presented as an approximate radiative transfer model.
• The model's success depends on the near-independence of underwater radiance distribution from environmental factors.
• Evidence supporting the qualitative and quantitative correctness of the SSI model is provided.

Conclusions:

• The SSI model offers a simplified approach to radiative transfer in shallow waters.
• It effectively aids in the interpretation of remote water color observations.
• The model balances mathematical simplicity with the retention of key radiative transfer subtleties.