Three sets of radar data collected in different climatic regions are analyzed to evaluate whether there is a unique shape–size relation. By changing the initial axial ratio relation, a procedure of minimization between the two curves is developed to derive the underlying drop shape–size relation governing the radar measurements under consideration. An averaged curve of K dp / Z h versus Z dr is obtained and compared with the same curve obtained from the radar data. A method is proposed to retrieve raindrop shapesize relations from the radar measurements of reflectivity factor Z h, differential reflectivity Z dr, and specific differential phase K dp at S band.

The truth is, a raindrop assumes several shapes as it falls from a cloudnone of which resemble teardrops. Actually, real raindrops bear scant resemblance to this. Fraser says: 'The artistic representation of raindrop as presented by popular culture is that of a teardrop. We see them in illustrations and even on weather maps on TV. The common raindrop is actually shaped more like a hamburger bun The best explanation about the shape of raindrops appears on Alistair B. Using an initial drop shape and choosing a set of DSDs described by a normalized gamma model, polarimetric radar measurements are produced by simulation. The popular belief that raindrops have the shape of teardrops is incorrect. Rachelle Oblack Updated on AugMuch like the snowflake symbolizes all things winter, a teardrop is a symbol of water and rain. The interaction between the particles within the rain drop and the surrounding environment (surface tension) keeps the rain drops spherical however, rain drops. Examples of the gamma raindrop size distribution for. To obtain information on the raindrop shape–size relation underlying a set of radar observations, this domain is studied in conjunction with another domain describing the relation between the drop axial ratio (or shape) and its equivolumetric diameter. shape are demonstrated by deriving relationships between pairs of integral rainfall parameters. This procedure is obtained using a domain defined by the two variables K dp / Z h and Z dr where the drop size distribution (DSD) variability is collapsed onto a line and any variation is essentially due to the drop shape variability. Baldini, LucaĪ method is proposed to retrieve raindrop shape–size relations from the radar measurements of reflectivity factor Z h, differential reflectivity Z dr, and specific differential phase K dp at S band. Raindrop size distribution (DSD) defines the variation in the composition of different raindrop sizes (diameters) within a storm and could be used as a tool for classifying rain events 2, 3. Can a Unique Model Describe the Raindrop Shape–Size Relation? A Clue from Polarimetric Radar Measurements Can a Unique Model Describe the Raindrop Shape–Size Relation? A Clue from Polarimetric Radar.

Raindrop shape definition