A statistical model of wave scattering from random rough surfaces

A statistical model based on the geometric optics approximation for predict ing wave scattering from random rough surfaces is developed. This model use s statistical concepts. rather than bundle tracing employed in the geometri c optics approximation. This model includes first-, second- and higher-orde r scatterings. Shadowing effects are included, and the model can be express ed in a closed form. For one-dimensional random rough surfaces, the statist ical model is quantified by comparisons with the exact electromagnetic theo ry calculations, and the results are in good agreement for surfaces with a surface slope less than unity. For two-dimensional random rough surfaces, t he approximate results are compared with the existing experimental findings and electromagnetic theory calculations. The statistical method is a compu tationally inexpensive wave scattering approach for surfaces with a surface slope less than 0.5, and the method can approximate the magnitude and the trend for surfaces with a surface slope greater than 0.5. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.