Linearized Single-Scattering Property Database for Hexagonal Prism Ice Particles

Accurate description of the single scattering properties of atmospheric particles can be an essential factor influencing the remote sensing of atmospheric microphysics. In this paper, a database for the linearized single scattering properties of ice particles was developed in the visible to infrared spectral region of 0.4–15 μm and for size parameters ranging from 0.5 to 500. The linearized invariant imbedding T-matrix method and linearized physical-geometric optics method were jointly applied. A full set of integral scattering properties including extinction efficiency, single scattering albedo, asymmetry factors, and differential scattering properties, including six phase matrix elements, were the basic scattering parameters in the database. Furthermore, the Jacobians of these regular scattering properties with respect to refractive index (real and imaginary parts) and effective radius were also included and used for sensitivity determinations. The spectral and size-dependent variations and changing rates of the derivative characteristics with actual application values, such as backscattering depolarization ratios, were also discussed.