How do you calculate the gain across the radar using intensity?

To understand how to calculate the gain across radar using intensity, it's essential to look at the relationship between the maximum received intensity (Imax) and the intensity of the signal from the transmitter (Ig).

Gain is expressed as a ratio that indicates how much a radar system amplifies the received signal compared to the signal intensity at the transmitter. In context, gain can be represented by the formula g = Imax/Ig. Here, Imax signifies the maximum intensity of the signal that the radar receiver detects, while Ig represents the intensity of the signal that was initially transmitted.

This gain calculation suggests that if the received intensity (Imax) is significantly higher than the transmitted intensity (Ig), then the gain is greater than one, which indicates effective amplification or focusing of the radar system. On the other hand, if the received intensity is close to the transmitted one, the gain will be around one, indicating minimal amplification.

Understanding this relationship is critical in radar meteorology, especially when interpreting radar data, optimizing radar systems, or troubleshooting issues related to signal transmission and reception.