Modeling of electromagnetic wave reflection from wet soil taken into account of dispersion, heterogeneity and surface roughness

Abstract

Background. Taking into account temperature, soil composition, surface roughness and the dependence of effective dielectric constant on frequency allows a more accurate assessment of soil moisture and other important parameters, which can be used in various fields such as agriculture, geology, ecology and hydrology. Aim. In this work, we calculate the reflection of a linearly polarized electromagnetic wave from wet soil, taking into account such physical factors as heterogeneity of soil structure, surface roughness and dispersion. Methods. Based on a heterogeneous mathematical model of wet soil, taking into account the dispersion of the dielectric constant of water and surface roughness, expressions are derived for the complex reflection coefficients of electromagnetic waves of vertical and horizontal polarization. Results. The model of loose wet soil with the standard deviation of roughness on the surface was chosen as the object of study. An analysis of the frequency and angular characteristics of the modules of the reflection coefficients was carried out at a fixed level of soil moisture. Conclusion. The data obtained as a result of the calculations is a valuable tool for further improving methods of remote sensing of the Earth and contributes to the development of new technologies for monitoring soil parameters using unmanned aerial vehicles, which opens up prospects for more accurate and efficient analysis of the state of land resources and ecosystems.