Discrete ordinate method with matrix exponential for a pseudo-spherical atmosphere: Vector case.

Abstract

The paper is devoted to the extension of the matrix-exponential formalism for the scalar radiative transfer to the vector case. Using basic results of the theory of matrix-exponential functions we provide a compact and versatile formulation of the vector radiative transfer. As in the scalar case, we operate with the concept of the layer equation incorporating the level values of the Stokes vector. The matrix exponentials which enter in the expression of the layer equation are computed by using the matrix eigenvalue method and the Padé approximation. A discussion of the computational efficiency of the proposed method for both an aerosol-loaded atmosphere as well as a cloudy atmosphere is also provided.