The Atmospheric Aerosol

Abstract

An understanding of the cloud forming processes in the atmosphere requires knowledge of the physical and chemical characteristics of the atmospheric- aerosol. In discussing this gaseous suspension of solid and liquid particles, it is customary to include all gases except water vapor, and all solid and liquid particles except hydrometeors, i.e., cloud and raindrops, and ice particles. In the present chapter we shall present a brief discussion of the characteristics of the gaseous constituents followed by a more detailed description of the main physical and chemical characteristics of the aerosol particles. For background on the subjects covered, the reader is referred to the texts of Rasool (1973), Butcher and Charlson (1972), Hidy (1972), McCormac (1971), Matthews et al. (1971), Hidy and Brock (1970), Singer (1970), Stern (1968). Davies (1966), Fuchs (1964), Green and Lane (1964), Junge (1963a), Cadle (1961, 1966); to the survey reports SMIC (1971), SCEF (1970), and Robinson and Robbins (1968, 1969, 1971); and to the survey articles by Junge (1969a, 1971. 1972a,b,c, 1974). Most of the data on which this chapter is based are derived from these sources.