Melting-layer modelling at C-Band

Abstract. Stratiform cloud formations, such as a uniform type of precipitating clouds, are sub dividable into layers with different aggregate states. In this way, it is adaptable to measurements with polarimetric radar. An important task here is the detection of the transition zone between the liquid particles (raindrops) below and the frozen particles (ice crystals) above, i.e. the melting-layer. Linked to the physical behaviour of melting, the measured signatures, from this area, include ice crystals and raindrops in different aggregate stages. A given melting-layer model will be analysed and the comparison to models for raindrops and ice particles from earlier studies will be done. Then the results are compared with measured signatures from the C-Band radar, POLDIRAD (Oberpfaffenhofen). So we shall seek an answer to the question whether the results are sufficient to create a melting-layer-class for hydrometeor classification.