Variations in the index of refraction of the atmosphere

Abstract

This paper discusses the atmospheric refractive index (a) throughout the year at the surface of the earth and (b) for each season in various air masses. Mean monthly or seasonal values, respectively, are employed. The annual variation in the refractive index at the earth's surface is examined by noting the contributions of the optical and the water vapor terms. The former exhibits a sinusoidal variation with a period of a year, having a maximum in winter and a minimum during summer. The amplitude of the cycle is latitude dependent, appearing greater in polar than in tropical regions. The magnitude of the water vapor term is more strongly dependent upon both season and latitude. Excepting areas where the dew point changes little from month to month, the water vapor term attains a single yearly maximum at about mid July. Graphs of the variation of refiactive index with altitude for the major air masses are included. Highest values of the index up to a height of 6 km are found in tropical maritime and monsoon air masses; lowest values, in arctic air masses. The rate of decrease of refractive index with height is usually quite different for diverse air masses. From the surface to an altitude of 6 km, the most constant rate of decrease with altitude, considering all air mass types, was found in the superior air mass.