BACKSCATTERING OF SOUND FROM A SCREEN USING A PARABOLIC EQUATION MODEL

A new two-way parabolic equation including ground impedance for solving backscattering from a screen is described. Backscattering is handled by applying the acoustic continuity conditions at the vertical interface of a screen. An analytical model based on a rigorous geometrical theory of diffraction is formed for comparison. Results of an example involving homogeneous atmosphere and a thin screen show an excellent agreement. It is shown that backscattering causes a rise of sound level in the areas between a source and a screen. The parabolic equation model is potential for studying noise from barriers having various shapes. For the covering abstract see ITRD E107776.