A new multi-layer discrete ordinate approach to radiative transfer in vertically inhomogeneous atmospheres

Knut Stamnes, Paul Conklin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

103 Scopus citations

Abstract

A recently developed matrix formulation of the discrete ordinate method is extended for application to an inhomogeneous atmosphere. The solution yields fluxes, as well as the complete azimuthal dependence of the intensity at any level in the atmosphere. The numerical aspects of the solution are discussed and numerical verification is provided by comparing computed results with those obtained by other methods. In particular, it is shown that a simple scaling scheme, which removes the positive exponentials in the coefficient matrix when solving for the constants of integration, provides unconditionally stable solutions for arbitrary optical thicknesses. An assessment of the accuracy to be expected is also provided, and it is shown that low-order discrete ordinate approximations yield very accurate flux values.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)273-282
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer
Volume31
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1984

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