Publication Date:
2016-10-09
Description:
Aerosol-cloud interaction is a key component of the Earth's radiative budget and hydrological cycle, but many facets of its mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In this study, global satellite-derived aerosol and cloud products are used to identify at what aerosol loadings cloud droplet size shows the greatest sensitivity to changes in aerosol loading ( A C S m a x ). While on average, cloud droplet size is most sensitive at relatively low aerosol loadings, distinct spatial and temporal patterns exist. Possible determinants for these are identified with reanalysis data. The magnitude of A C S m a x is found to be constrained by the total columnar water vapor. Seasonal patterns of water vapor are reflected in the seasonal patterns of A C S m a x . Also, situations with enhanced turbulent mixing are connected to higher A C S m a x , possibly due to intensified aerosol activation. Of the analyzed aerosol species, dust seems to impact A C S m a x the most, as dust particles increase the retrieved aerosol loading without substantially increasing the concentration of cloud condensation nuclei.
Print ISSN:
0148-0227
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Physics
