Infrared Observation of Earth}s Atmosphere [Hardcover]

Acknowledgements ix

List of Symbols xi

List of Acronyms xv

Preface xxi

Introduction xxv

Chapter 1. Basic Physics of the Atmosphere and Radiation 1

1.1. Structure and composition of Earth’s atmosphere 2

1.1.1. Vertical structure of the atmosphere 2

1.1.2. Atmospheric gases 3

1.1.3. Aerosols and hydrometeors 6

1.2. Atmospheric aerosols 7

1.2.1. Overview 7

1.2.2. Microphysical properties of aerosols 9

1.3. Clouds 13

1.3.1. Definitions and classification 13

1.3.2. Formation 15

1.3.3. Microphysical properties 17

1.4. Radiation in Earth’s atmosphere 20

1.4.1. Electromagnetic radiation 20

1.4.2. The foundations of radiometry 21

1.4.3. Solar and terrestrial radiation 23

1.4.4. Reflection and emission of radiation by a surface 29

1.5. Radiation budget of the climate system 32

1.5.1. Radiative balance of the atmosphere 32

1.5.2. The greenhouse effect and parasol effect 34

1.5.3. Radiative forcing of atmospheric components 36

1.5.4. Impact of aerosols on climate 38

1.5.5. Impact of clouds on climate 39

1.5.6. Climate sensitivity 40

1.5.7. Observation of radiative budget 41

1.6. For further information 42

Chapter 2. Instrumentation and Sensors 45