The lognormal distribution as a model for bio‐optical variability in the sea

Abstract

The lognormal distribution is presented as a useful model for bio‐optical variability at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. A parametric statistical framework is presented for using the lognormal model to assess the effects of heterogeneity and scale on closure. Variability at small scales affects but is unresolved by large‐scale measurements. An assumed lognormal distribution allows one to integrate over small‐scale variability to predict large‐scale measurements. Examples are presented to demonstrate how knowledge of the variance can be incorporated into models to relate measurements made at different scales.