Size Distribution

 

First, the effect of using different functional forms for the size distribution are investigated. In addition to the log-normal distribution, the standard gamma distribution is also used for the purpose of this comparison. Comparisons are made using the same values of $r_{\rm eff}=0.2~\mu$m and $v_{\rm eff}=0.17$. Results are shown in Figure 5.6 at wavelengths of 340, 475 and 750 nm. There is negligible difference in both radiances and polarization indicating that choice of the size distribution functional form is arbitrary and only a matter of convenience. Greater differences are expected if a multi-modal distribution is used.