Reflectivity

The measure of the efficiency of a radar target in intercepting and returning Electro Magnetic Energy. Reflectivity depends upon the size, shape, aspect and dielectric properties at the surface of the target.

Usually a reference to Radar Reflectivity; the sum of all backscattering cross-sections (e.g., precipitation particles) in a pulse resolution volume divided by that volume. The radar reflectivity can be related to the radar reflectivity factor through the dielectric constant term |K|^2, and the radar wavelength.

The reflectance at the surface of a material so thick that the reflectance does not change with increasing thickness, i.e., the intrinsic reflectance of the surface, irrespective of other parameters such as the reflectance of the rear surface. Note: The term "reflectivity" is no longer in common use. See reflectance.