A critical analysis on the uncertainty computation in ground-penetrating radar-retrieved dry snow parameters

• DOI: 10.1190/geo2019-0683.1
• Publication Date: 2020-06-05T13:39:46Z
• Authors: Federico Di Paolo; Barbara Cosciotti; Sebastian E. Lauro; Elisabetta Mattei; Elena Pettinelli
• Keywords: Ground-Penetrating Radar

The use of the ground-penetrating-radar (GPR) technique to estimate snow parameters such as thickness, density, and water equivalent (SWE) is particularly promising because it allows for surveying a large area in relatively short amount time. However, this application requires an accurate evaluation physical retrieved from radar measurements, which estimating each quantity involved computation along with its associated uncertainty. Conversely, uncertainties are rarely reported GPR studies, even if they represent essential information data comparisons other techniques rod or pit methods. Snow can be estimated follows: thickness computed two-way traveltime average wave velocity known; density using appropriate mixing formula, SWE once these two have been calculated. Starting published data, we accuracy achievable by computing overall uncertainty GPR-retrieved parameter evaluated influence different sources uncertainties. was made three antenna frequencies (250, 500, 1000 MHz) various depths (0–5 m). We find that thicknesses less than 3 m, main contribution given on estimation, especially low frequencies. thicker depths, factors separation affect cannot neglected. Our studies highlight importance uncertaintiy assessment suggest rigorous way their field quantitative geophysics.