Researchers discover the role of absorbent aerosols in winter fog formation

Light absorption of aerosols plays an important role in regulating the heat balance between the atmosphere and the earth’s surface. This occurs through two main mechanisms: the aerosol direct effect, where aerosols absorb solar radiation, and the aerosol indirect effect, which involves aerosols acting as cloud condensation and ice nuclei.

These impacts not only affect local climates but can also cause global climate change. Additionally, interactions between aerosols, radiation, and photolysis further complicate their effects on haze formation.

A recent study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) reveals the role of light-absorbing aerosols in winter fog formation.

In this study, we developed a radiative transfer model that comprehensively considers the multicomponent full-size distribution of aerosols, combined it with a regional atmospheric chemical transport model, and combined it with observational data to quantitatively evaluate the effects of light-absorbing aerosols. I analyzed it. -Interaction of radiation and photolysis in large-scale winter fog formation.

“Our results indicate that previous studies may have overestimated the positive role of aerosol light absorption in haze formation,” said researcher Professor Lee. “This provides new insights into how light-absorbing aerosols influence atmospheric physicochemical processes.”

From the perspective of atmospheric physical mechanisms, previous studies have shown that light-absorbing aerosols exacerbate pollution at the urban scale. However, when considering these aerosols on a larger scale, the researchers observed that the vertical heating rate was non-uniform.

The highest heating rate occurs at the top of the boundary layer, creating a “warm bubble” effect. This effect enhances the upward movement of air in polluted areas, while promoting the downward movement of air in cleaner areas, ultimately leading to a reduction in PM2.5 concentrations. In addition, light-absorbing aerosols reduce atmospheric oxidation and suppress the formation of secondary aerosols, further contributing to lower PM2.5 levels.

This study reveals the mechanisms of light-absorbing aerosols within the climate system, providing critical data for climate models and providing a scientific basis for strategies to reduce aerosol emissions and improve air quality. important for.