Theoretical and experimental study of the radar backscatter of Arctic sea ice

The present theoretical model for sea ice radar backscatter has supported parametric studies of radar signature sensitivity to changes in salinity, temperature, brine volume, density, air bubble size, and surface roughness. Parametric study results indicate that first-year and multiyear ice may be confused when first-year ice is very rough and has exceptionally high salinity, as well as being only a few degrees C from the melting point. Confusion also arises when multiyear ice is slightly more saline, the temperature is a few degrees C from the melting point, surface is moderately rough, and air bubbles are small but still typical of multiyear ice.