Comparison of Empirical Sea-Surface Slopes Probability Densities for the Purposes of Satellite Sounding

Based on a comparison of Cox-Munk and Bréon-Henriot empirical models of the sea-surface slopes probability density that are more close to the results of satellite observations as compared to other empirical models, an estimate of their practical error for winds equal to 1, 3, 7, 14 m/s is presented. Also, values of the discrepancy between the Cox-Munk model and that frequently used simplified forms are calculated, along with the discrepancy between the Cox-Munk model and its modification that, unlike the original one, is non-negative for all possible slopes and wind speeds. The physical causes of the discrepancy between the Cox-Munk and Bréon-Henriot models typical for small and large wind speeds are considered. It is shown that to reduce the systematic errors of empirical models of the sea-surface slopes probability density, it is necessary to study and take into account the effect of thermal stability of the marine boundary layer on their parameters.