Which natural occurrence might cause a double bounce effect?

The double bounce effect occurs when a radar signal is reflected off two smooth surfaces before returning to the radar system. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in the context of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging, where the radar waves can hit a structure like a building or a bridge, reflect off its surfaces, and then bounce off the ground before returning to the sensor.

When the radar signal reflects off two smooth surfaces, these interactions create a more complex return signal that can lead to distinctive features in the radar imagery, providing valuable information about the structure’s height and shape. This effect can enhance the interpretation of imagery in urban environments where buildings and infrastructure might create such reflections.

The other options do not contribute to a double bounce effect. Passing through dense fog would primarily lead to signal degradation rather than a double bounce. Scattering due to wind involves irregular reflections primarily from rough surfaces and would not create the two-surface interaction needed for a double bounce. Similarly, heating of the surface does not correlate with the interaction needed for the double bounce; rather, it relates to thermal properties, which does not directly impact radar reflection in the way that surfaces do.