Some High Values for the Albedo of the Sea

J. Willis Eppley Foundation for Research, Newport, R. I.

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Abstract

Shipboard shortwave albedo measurements near Bermuda are presented for two widely different sea surface conditions and solar elevations ranging from 25–35°. Good agreement with existing water albedo values was obtained for light winds and seas. An albedo of 0.14 corresponded to 8-ft seas and 18-kt winds. This value showed little variation with these solar elevations. Comparisons are made with other albedo values and the discussion establishes the inadequacy of existing prediction equations, in general, for rough sea, high wind conditions.

Abstract

Shipboard shortwave albedo measurements near Bermuda are presented for two widely different sea surface conditions and solar elevations ranging from 25–35°. Good agreement with existing water albedo values was obtained for light winds and seas. An albedo of 0.14 corresponded to 8-ft seas and 18-kt winds. This value showed little variation with these solar elevations. Comparisons are made with other albedo values and the discussion establishes the inadequacy of existing prediction equations, in general, for rough sea, high wind conditions.

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