On the vertical distribution of backscatter from a forest canopy for improving polinsar retrievals

In a previous paper this author demonstrated how a macroecological plant model could be used to parameterize a backscatter model with the aim of predicting trends in backscatter and height as a function of vegetation biomass. The macroecological model used is of interest because it gives a simple description of the plant structure but remains within realistic biophysical limits. The aim of this paper is to elaborate on that approach by considering how the model characterizes the vertical profile of the backscatter response. The vertical profile is important in determining the relationship between scattering phase centre and height of a forest for interferometric studies, in the modeling of polarimetric interferometry, and in full radar tomography.