Neutral points in an atmosphere–ocean system 1: Upwelling light field

Abstract

We have developed a Monte Carlo code that utilizes the complete Stokes vector to examine the structure of the degree of linear polarization in the complete observable solid angle at any level in an atmosphere-ocean system. By performing these calculations we are able to compute the positions of neutral points in the upwelling light above and beneath the ocean surface. The locations of these points in a single-scatter calculation and a Monte Carlo treatment are shown for various conditions. The presence of aerosols in the atmosphere and hydrosols in the ocean was found to have an effect on the location of these neutral points.