Parameterization for narrow band optical properties of water clouds

The equivalent radius of cloud droplets is an important microphysical parameter in determining the optical properties of clouds. But for the present schemes of parameterization with merely the equivalent radius, the role of small droplets in clouds has not been considered properly. In this paper, several parameterization schemes are pre sented, and their performances have been analyzed through comparison with Mie scattering calculations and accurate ra diative transfer computations. The results show that for the parameterization scheme, in addition to the equivalent ra dius, including also the mean radius of cloud droplets, the role of small cloud droplets might be considered more proper ly and better accuracy could be achieved.