Error caused by using a constant extinction/backscattering ratio in the lidar solution

Abstract

The Bernoulli solution of the lidar equation with the assumption of a constant extinction/backscattering ratio can lead to errors in the derived aerosol extinction and backscattering profiles. This paper presents a general theoretical analysis of the errors that result from differences between the assumed and actual extinction/backscattering ratio profiles. Examples of the influence of the constant extinction/backscattering ratio assumption on the lidar derived aerosol extinction profile are presented for various laser wavelengths.