Mechanisms of tropospheric microwave propagation for a linear segmented profile of the refractive index

The mechanisms of tropospheric microwave propagation for a linear segmented profile of the refractive index are summarized. There is an attempt to generalize the profile of this type and investigate different radio wave propagation conditions from the standpoint of the coherence theory of microwave tropospheric diffraction. In particular, there is discussion concerned with the whispering gallery modes in the troposphere. It seems unlikely these will be excited. Thus, the reflections from the atmospheric layers and the trapped modes under superrefraction conditions account mainly for the long distance tropospheric propagation from this standpoint.