Radiative Transfer Axioms

Four axioms arc stated from which the salient features of modern radiative transfer theory may be rigorously deduced. In particular, the various classical attenuating functions and the correct form of the classical homogeneous equation of transfer for radiance (specific intensity) are obtained. The contents of the axioms are culled from recurring themes which appear to be common to all discussions of the classical theory. In particular, the axioms summarize and abstract the notions of carrier space, radiative measure, radiative process, and transfer process. The phenomenon of polarization is included in the formalism. Besides introducing new analytical procedures into the radiative transfer theory, the axiomatic approach allows some novel connections with other branches of mathematical physics such as the Mueller phenomenological algebra, Maxwell's electromagnetic theory, neutron transport theory, and the theory of stochastic processes. Contribution from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, New Series No. . This paper represents results of research which has been supported by the Bureau of Ships, U. S. Navy. Radiative Transfer Axioms 2