| Abstract: | Computer simulation of halos caused by ice crystal scattering provides a simple and accurate qualitative measure of the intensity distribution. To correctly calculate intensities, the effects of polarization must be considered. Using laws of refraction and reflection, light rays are traced through thousands of crystals to obtain a simulation. Placing restrictions on the crystal rotations produces a certain intensity plot, used to compare with observations. The simulation provides a direct correlation between crystal restrictions and halo phenomena. What is learned about the orientations of the crystals then gives information about their type and size. |
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