Reflectivity - Water Reflectivity

Water Reflectivity

Reflection occurs when light moves from a medium with one index of refraction into a second medium with a different index of refraction.

Specular reflection from a body of water is calculated by the Fresnel equations. Fresnel reflection is directional and therefore does not contribute significantly to albedo which is primarily diffuse reflection.

A real water surface may be wavy. Reflectivity assuming a flat surface as given by the Fresnel equations can be adjusted to account for waviness.

Read more about this topic:  Reflectivity

Famous quotes containing the word water:

    “Lord, crack their teeth! Lord, crush these lions’ jaws!
    So let them sink as water in the sand;
    When deadly bow their aiming fury draws,
    Shiver the shaft ere past the shooter’s hand.
    So make them melt as the dishoused snail”
    —Bible: Hebrew Psalm LVIII (Paraphrased by the Countess of Pembroke)