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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
11:34
Scattering And Absorption of Light in Planetary Regoliths
Published on: July 1, 2019
Summary
This study calculates light scattering by polyhedral ice particles, revealing that backscattering patterns can identify ice-crystal types. Unusual halo phenomena were also observed and verified.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric optics
- Light scattering by ice particles
Background:
- Understanding light scattering by ice particles is crucial for atmospheric radiative transfer.
- Polyhedral ice particles, common in clouds, exhibit complex scattering properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate single-scattering phase functions for polyhedral ice particles.
- To investigate the influence of particle shape, including concavity, on scattering signatures.
- To identify unique scattering phenomena and their relation to particle morphology.
Main Methods:
- Utilized geometric optics and diffraction theory for scattering calculations.
- Assumed random orientation of ice particles in space.
- Incorporated diverse ice particle shapes from classifications and in situ measurements.
Main Results:
- Calculated scattering phase functions for various polyhedral ice particles.
- Observed a pronounced forward-scattering peak and distinct halo peaks.
- Identified an unusual halo phenomenon from a double-prism configuration.
- Demonstrated that backscattering is a sensitive indicator for ice-crystal type identification.
Conclusions:
- Polyhedral ice particle shape significantly influences scattering signatures.
- Backscattering patterns offer a reliable method for classifying ice-crystal types.
- Aggregate particles exhibit scattering properties similar to their constituent components.
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