Question 14

How do aerosols grow?

Background: Aerosols in the atmosphere can grow in size by collision of smaller aerosols but also by sorption of airborne organic compounds from the surrounding gas phase. They are then called Secondary Organic Aerosol. Considerable research is conducted in atmospheric chemistry to better understand this sorption process. In the following you will find quotations from recent research papers in this field.

Statement 1: "Only when the concentration of a gaseous organic compound in the atmosphere approaches its saturation vapour pressure does partitioning begin and Secondary Organic Aerosol mass is formed." Do you agree?

Statement 2: "The extent of partitioning of any individual organic compound to the aerosol phase depends on the compound's vapour pressure, the nature of the other organic species present, and the amount of liquid water present in the particle." Do you agree?

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