Abstract :
A novel method, based on the parabolic approximation, has recently been developed for predicting fields in an inhomogeneous atmosphere. Unlike its predecessors, it can be applied when the ground boundary is not horizontal, and it does not require the presence of an absorbing layer. This implicit finite-difference/Green´s function method (IFDG) is reviewed, and it is used to analyze the effect of a simple terrain irregularity on propagation within standard atmosphere. Its ability to easily provide coverage diagrams has been demonstrated. The method can also be used to analyze propagation over irregular terrain in nonstandard atmospheric environments, including those containing ducts with laterally changing properties.<>
Keywords :
Green´s function methods; difference equations; radiowave propagation; tropospheric electromagnetic wave propagation; IFDG method; coverage diagrams; finite difference method; implicit finite-difference/Green function method; irregular terrain; nonstandard atmospheric environments; parabolic approximation; propagation predictions; radio waves; standard atmosphere; tropospheric EM wave propagation; Boundary conditions; Ducts; Electromagnetic fields; Electromagnetic propagation; Finite difference methods; Green function; Impedance; Integral equations; Radar; Terrestrial atmosphere;
