Particle Size Sampling and Object-Oriented Image Analysis for Field Investigations of Snow Particle Size, Shape, and Distribution

• DOI: 10.1657/1938-4246-45.3.330
• Publication Date: 2013-08-16T13:10:47Z
• Authors: Susanne Ingvander; Ian A. Brown; Peter Jansson; Per Holmlund; Cecilia Johansson; Gunhild Rosqvist
• Keywords: Particle (ecology)

Snow particle size is an important parameter strongly affecting snow cover broadband albedo from seasonally covered areas and ice sheets. It also in remote sensing analyses because it influences the reflectance scattering properties of snow. We have developed a digital image processing method for capture analysis data shape. The suitable quick reliable field. Traditional methods based on visual inspection samples been used but do not yield quantitative data. Our provides alternative to both simpler more complex by providing tool that limits subjective effect distribution. involves software field efficient instrumentation order develop complete process-chain easily implemented under conditions. output two-dimensional size, shape, distributions each sample. results segmentation process were validated against manual delineation particles. improves quantitative, reproducible, applicable different types sites.