Validated infrared transmittance band model for methane in the atmosphere

A validated band model for atmospheric methane (CH4) in the 1085–1755- and 2370–3215-cm−1 wave-number regions is presented. Discussions of the transmittance data base used to create the model and of the band parameter determination scheme are given. Comparisons of the model vs methane transmittance are provided. Band model parameters at 5-cm−1 intervals for 20-cm−1 spectral resolution throughout the absorption bands are included for direct incorporation into the lowtran code. A vertical profile of methane’s volume mixing ratio is also proposed for use with the thirty-three-layer standard atmosphere.