On the Cutoff Wavenumber in the Geometrical Optics Theory of Near Specular Scattering from the Sea Surface

Abstract

A method for determining the cutoff wavenumber used in the geometrical optics theory of scattering from a random rough surface is presented. The method is based on the “alpha stable distribution” approach described in previous studies, and yields a cutoff wavenumber that depends on the spectrum model applied, the angle of incidence, and the frequency of interest. Use of the cutoff wavenumber so determined is found to improve agreement between predictions of the geometrical optics and physical optics theories of near specular scattering from the sea surface in some situations.