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RESEARCH PRODUCT

A sensitivity analysis of a surface energy balance model to LAI (Leaf Area Index)

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description

The LAI is a key parameter in hydrological processes, especially in the physically based distribution models. It is a critical ecosystem attribute since physiological processes such as photosynthesis, transpiration and evaporation depend on it. The diffusion of water vapor, momentum, heat and light through the canopy is regulated by the distribution and density of the leaves, branches, twigs and stems. The LAI influences the sensible heat flux H in the surface energy balance single source models through the calculation of the roughness length and of the displacement height. The aerodynamic resistance between the soil and within-canopy source height is a function of the LAI through the roughness length. This research carried out a sensitivity analysis of some of the most important parameters of surface energy balance models to the LAI time variation, in order to take into account the effects of the LAI variation with the phenological period. Finally empirical retrieved relationships between field spectroradiometric data and the field LAI measured via a light-sensitive instrument are presented for a cereal field.