Infrared Radiation in the Atmosphere

The infrared radiation flux in the atmosphere is determined by the distribution of three gases—water vapor, carbon dioxide, and ozone. The general equations for the transfer of radiation in a gas are derived. These equations are solved for four simple model atmospheres that illustrate various features of the more complicated results for the earth's atmosphere. The atmospheric infrared radiation flux can be calculated from laboratory absorption measurements. The results of such calculations are discussed in detail for the frequency ranges that are influenced by the carbon dioxide and ozone bands.