Work

The role of collision and coalescence on the microphysics of marine fog

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Cloud microphysics fulfills a fundamental role in the formation and evolution of marine fog, but it is not fully understood. Numerous studies have addressed this by means of direct observations and modeling efforts. However, collision–coalescence of aerosols and fog droplets is a process often neglected. In this study we perform an analysis of the role of particle collections on the formation, development, and microphysical structure of marine fog. It was found that collisions open a path for aerosol activation by means of collisional activation. In addition, collisions contribute to the diffusional activation of fog particles by adding water mass to the growing aerosols, making them reach the required critical radius faster. Furthermore, collisions have a homogenizing effect on hygroscopicity, facilitating the activation of accumulation‐mode aerosols by increasing their diffusional growth.

Source: Quarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society

DOI: 10.1002/qj.4831

Authors: Camilo F. Rodriguez‐Geno, David H. Richter

Institution: University of Notre Dame

Language: English

Topic: Atmospheric aerosols and clouds

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: University of Notre Dame, Office of Naval Research