Depolarization Lidar Determination of Cloud-Base Microphysical Properties

D. P. Donovan, H Klein Baltink, J. S. Henzing, S. De Roode, A. P. Siebesma

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articleScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

The links between multiple-scattering induced depolarization and cloud microphysical properties (e.g. cloud particle number density, effective radius, water content) have long been recognised. Previous efforts to use depolarization information in a quantitative manner to retrieve cloud microphysical cloud properties have also been undertaken but with limited scope and, arguably, success. In this work we present a retrieval procedure applicable to liquid stratus clouds with (quasi-)linear LWC profiles and (quasi-)constant number density profiles in the cloud-base region. This set of assumptions allows us to employ a fast and robust inversion procedure based on a lookup-table approach applied to extensive lidar Monte-Carlo multiple-scattering calculations. An example validation case is presented where the results of the inversion procedure are compared with simultaneous cloud radar observations. In non-drizzling conditions it was found, in general, that the lidar-only inversion results can be used to predict the radar reflectivity within the radar calibration uncertainty (2-3 dBZ). Results of a comparison between ground-based aerosol number concentration and lidar-derived cloud base number considerations are also presented. The observed relationship between the two quantities is seen to be consistent with the results of previous studies based on aircraft-based in situ measurements.

Original languageEnglish
Article number16010
Number of pages5
JournalEPJ Web of Conferences
Volume119
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 Jun 2016
Event27th International Laser Radar Conference - City College of New York, New York, United States
Duration: 5 Jul 201710 Jul 2017
Conference number: 27
http://ilrc27.org/

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