Spectral Reflectance and Transmittance of a Leaf as a Function of Chlorophyll Content

Abstract

An optical model for the propagation of light in a leaf is constructed by assuming the multiple-reflection of light in the leaf and by taking the actual structure of the leaf into account. It gives spectral reflectance and transmittance of a leaf as functions of chlorophyll content of the leaf. We measured spectral reflectance, transmittance and chlorophyll content of leaves of hydrangea and chinquapin in order to confirm the validity of the model. Spectral reflectance and transmittance were calculated from the chlorophyll content by the model and compared with the measured values. Good agreement between them shows the validity of the model.