Application of a polarimetric model to the surface microstructure of particles in the B-ring of Saturn

Scattering of light from the surface of particles in the B-ring of Saturn has been examined using a polarimetric model. Application of the model has allowed evaluation of the individual parameters involved in the scattering process and the manner in which they inter-relate to produce the observed polarization curve. Theoretical polarization curves based on a simulated rough-ice surface are compared with published observational data for the B-ring. The form of the negative branch of the synthesised polarization curves is strongly influenced by the degree of roughness of the simulated surface relative to the wavelength of light and by the amount of depolarization in the scattered light. (author)