Generalized semi-empirical modelling of wheat radar response

Two semi-empirical models, simulating the backscattering coefficient from different crops, were tested on the same wheat canopy. The physics of the semi-empirical models and the limitations of these models when scattering effects are discussed. The results show that both models can be included in a generalized formulation adapted to a large range of measurement conditions. This conclusion confirms that the radar configuration (waveband, polarization, incidence angle) plays a role similar to that of the canopy structure in the control of the radar backscattering coefficient.