Two optical models (one based upon Monte Carlo simulations of the solutions of the radiative transfer equations and one based upon exponential/quasi-single scattering simulations) relating the apparent and inherent optical properties of natural water masses are utilized in conjunction with directly measured values of the irradiance attenuation coefficient K(0), the diffuse reflectance R(0), and the total attenuation coefficient c to determine the inherent optical properties of Lake Ontario coastal waters. Tables are presented displaying the calculated values of scattering albedo ω0, forwardscattering probability F, backscattering probability B, absorption coefficient a, and scattering coefficient b as a function of wavelength. From the tables of calculated values, it is shown that both F and b display a spectral invariance, while ω0 displays distinct spectral variations, the spectral variations apparent in the measured values of c may be attributable to spectral variations in a, and B displays a spectral change that varies inversely with the spectral change in a and c. The volume scattering phase function β(θ) appears to be altered by the absorption characteristics of the water mass, contrary to the generally accepted premise that absorption and particulate backscattering are independent processes. © 1979 Optical Society of America.
