Sensitivity Analysis of Multiple Scattering Theory Applied to Tree Canopies at Microwave Frequencies

A sensitivity analysis of the multiple scattering theory applied to propagation in tree canopies is presented. This analysis aims at addressing the influence of input parameters on the canopy's equivalent scattering amplitude as well as the overall coherent and incoherent scattered fields. The main input parameters of interest were identified as frequency, number densities and dielectric parameters of branches and leaves, polarization, and a canopy shape. A number of graphical results are provided enabling to identify the key parameters of corresponding radio-wave propagation models based on the multiple scattering theory.