Infrared radiation extinction sensitivity to the modified gamma distribution parameters for haze and fog droplet polydispersions

Abstract

The volume extinction coefficients at 1.03 microm, 3.70 microm, and 10.38 microm, normalized to that at 0.50-microm wavelength, are calculated as a function of the shape parameters of the modified gamma size distribution using parameter ranges appropriate for haze and fog droplet polydispersions. Based on the sensitivity of the normalized volume extinction coefficients on the shape parameters, different procedures are proposed for utilizing the extinction features in giving form to the size distribution corresponding to the various evolutionary stages of the water droplet population. Such a methodology presents applicability in the field of fog forecast.