Influence of Alignment on the Scattering Properties Atmospheric Mineral Dust

Abstract

We carry out an investigation of the influence of particle alignment on the scattering properties of mineral dust layers. Our modelling indicates that in addition to modifying optical thickness, the alignment can significantly alter the scattering properties, including polarization. Influence of the alignment on remote sensing retrievals is also examined, and it is concluded that satellite and to a lesser extent sun photometry retrievals would be significantly affected.