Ernst, Florian (2005) Einfluss der Mikrophysik auf das Polarisationsverhalten von Cirruswolken. (Diploma thesis), Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany, 84 pp.

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Abstract

In this work the impact of microphysics of ice crystals on the polarization behaviour of solar radiation is studied. For this purpose the single scattering model of Macke (1994) is used. The main focus is on the examination of characteristical properties of the backscattering area to draw conclusions on the microphysical consistence of the cloud. Two different types of crystals are examined, hexagonal columns and plates. If an isotropic distribution of the crystal orientation is given, the typical halos are generated. The polarization properties of both crystals are similar, conclusions on the crystal geometry are difficult to draw. The limitation of the crystal orientation to one plane shows the possible ray paths. The comparison of the two crystals displays clear differences. Choosing a maximum tilt angle to simulate the preferred horizontal orientation of atmospheric ice crystals affects the polarization properties of the two crystal geometries. The presetting of realistic parameters permits the conclusion that an inference on the microphysics of a cirrus cloud by dint of polarization properties in the backscattering area could be possible. Consideration of absorption doesn't change the polarization behaviour in a decisive manner.

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