Effects of Cumulus Clouds on Solar Radiation

Abstract

<p> An investigation of the effects of cumulus clouds on solar radiation was carried out during the 1977 field season at McMaster University, Hamilton. The measurement of total incoming solar radiation, direct beam radiation and the diffuse flux calculated as a residual, were used to draw inferences regarding the transmission properties of cumulus clouds, both on a daily basis and for different cloud fields, The diffuse flux, showing the greatest variability, was sub-divided into three components and each were evaluated under unobscured and obscured sun conditions. Measured values were compared with those derived for a model atmosphere.</p>