[Radiative Properties of Cirrus Clouds Based on Hexagonal and Spherical Ice Crystals Models].

Abstract

Single scattering properties for spherical and hexagonal ice crystal models with different size parameters and wavelengths were employed to calculate satellite observed radiation and downward flux in ground surface using RSTAR radiative transfer model. Results indicated that simulated satellite observed radiation and ground surface downward radiant flux from different shapes of ice crystal models were different. The difference in the spectral radiation fluxes between 0. 4 and 1. 0 µm was largest, and particle shapes affected the downward radiant flux significantly. It was verified that the proper selection of the effective ice crystal model is not only important for retrieval of the microphysical and optical parameters of the cirrus cloud, but also important for obtaining the radiant flux on the earth's surface correctly. These results are important for retrieving cloud microphysical parameters and simulation of the ground surface downward radiant flux.