Theory of radio reflections from electron-ion clouds

Abstract

Approximations to the reflection coefficients of electron-ion clouds of various sizes, shapes, and densities are determined. A simplified approach to the problem is employed, wherein the total reflection from the low-density clouds is computed by Summing the scattered wavelets from the individual electrons, while the high-density clouds are treated as total reflectors at the critical density radius. Some of the limitations of this method are discussed. While more elaborate determinations should be used in certain regions of cloud size and density, the method used here provides an over-all, first-order approximation of the effects of size, shape, and density on the reflecting properties of electron-ion clouds. Several possible applications of the theoretical results are outlined.