The Analytical Exponential Decay Coefficient of the Submarine Light Field.
Abstract
The goal of the activities sponsored by this contract is a deeper understanding of the physical and biological dynamics of the upper layers of the sea. The vehicle chosen for these studies is the application of the Three-Parameter Model of the submarine light field. This model can determine an exponential decay coefficient (diffuse attenuation coefficient) of the submarine light field that is a simple analytical function. The model is mathematically equivalent to the actual submarine light field which allows the determination of well defined optical parameters associated with the marine hydrosol. This model can also be described as requiring the fewest light measurements to effect a valid generalization of the Lambert Beer law to a diffused three dimensional light field. The major objectives of this contract activity are to determine variations in the exponential decay coefficient of the submarine light field, relate these variations to discontinuities in dissolved and suspended matter, utilize the Lambert Beer law in a valid fashion to study these variations, investigate more deeply the phenomenon of optical energy trapping and its contribution to the energy budget of the upper ocean layers, and help coordinate the research efforts of the NORDA optical oceanography program with the interdisciplinary efforts of the BIOWATT program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA177859
Entities
Organizations
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill