Linearization of radiative transfer with respect to surface properties

The linearization of radiative transfer with respect to surface properties in the UV and visible part of the solar spectrum is presented. The proposed method is a rigorous extension of the radiative perturbation theory with respect to surface properties. Given the forward and adjoint intensity field, analytical expressions are provided for the linearization of any observable related to the radiation field with respect to surface properties characterized by Minnaert's and Lambertian bidirectional reflection distribution function. For the considered surface reflection characteristics, we also discuss an extension of the reduction approach of Chandrasekhar as an alternative linearization method. The suitability of both approaches for the combined retrieval of trace gas and surface properties from the backscattered sunlight in the UV and visible part of the spectrum is discussed. The authors come to the conclusion that the perturbation theory, for this purpose, represents the superior method because of its general applicability to any parameter characterizing the optical properties of the atmosphere and the underlying surface. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.