What does the backscattering cross section primarily depend upon?

The backscattering cross section relates directly to how effectively a target scatters electromagnetic waves back toward the radar, and this phenomenon is heavily influenced by the size and shape of the scatterer. When radar waves encounter particles, droplets, or other objects, the extent of scattering that occurs depends on these geometric characteristics.

Larger particles typically scatter more effectively than smaller ones due to their size in relation to the wavelength of the radar signal. Additionally, the shape can alter the scattering patterns; for example, spherical scatterers will have different scattering properties compared to irregularly shaped scatterers. The interaction between the incident radar wave and the target is based on the principles of electromagnetic theory, where the dimensions and form of the scatterer play critical roles.

While other factors like the type of radar system might influence the overall detection and measurement capabilities, they do not fundamentally alter the intrinsic relationship between the backscattering and the scatterer's size and shape. Similarly, atmospheric temperature and geographic location could impact signal propagation or radar returns but are not primary determinants of the backscattering cross section itself.