Role of scattering in emergent planetary radiation

Abstract

Starting from the basic concepts, the role played by multiple scattering in modifying the intensity and polarization of radiation incident on a planetary atmosphere is brought out. Formation of spectral lines in such an atmosphere is discussed in detail. Various ground-based methods of observation are given and the spectroscopic observational data for Jupiter and Venus reviewed till 1981. Areas which require further attention are identified. Results of absorption and polarization line profiles, computed for a semi-infinite Rayleigh scattering atmosphere, are presented for two phase angles of 5° and 87°.