Albedo: Difference between revisions
From Glossary of Meteorology
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{{Term | |||
|Display title=albedo | |||
{{ | |Definitions={{Definition | ||
|Num=1 | |||
|Meaning=The ratio of reflected [[flux density]] to incident flux density, referenced to some surface. | |||
|Explanation=Albedos commonly tend to be broadband ratios, usually referring either to the entire [[spectrum]] of [[solar radiation]], or just to the visible portion. More precise work requires the use of spectral albedos, referenced to specific wavelengths. Visible albedos of natural surfaces [[range]] from low values of ∼0.04 for calm, [[deep water]] and overhead sun, to > 0.8 for fresh snow or thick clouds. Many surfaces show an increase in albedo with increasing [[solar zenith angle]]. <br/>''See also'' [[plane albedo|plane albedo]], [[planetary albedo]], [[spherical albedo]], [[directional-hemispherical reflectance]], [[bihemispherical reflectance|bihemispherical reflectance]]. | |||
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Latest revision as of 22:07, 27 March 2024
The ratio of reflected flux density to incident flux density, referenced to some surface.
Albedos commonly tend to be broadband ratios, usually referring either to the entire spectrum of solar radiation, or just to the visible portion. More precise work requires the use of spectral albedos, referenced to specific wavelengths. Visible albedos of natural surfaces range from low values of ∼0.04 for calm, deep water and overhead sun, to > 0.8 for fresh snow or thick clouds. Many surfaces show an increase in albedo with increasing solar zenith angle.
See also plane albedo, planetary albedo, spherical albedo, directional-hemispherical reflectance, bihemispherical reflectance.
