Background Levels of Atmospheric Particulate Matter over the Northeast Atlantic Ocean

Abstract

Understanding the physical and chemical properties of marine aerosol particles is crucial because of the role these particles play in a number of atmospheric processes. Marine aerosols affect climate directly through scattering and absorption of radiation and indirectly as they can act as cloud condensation nuclei and thus influence the albedo of clouds. In addition, marine aerosol particles play an important role in the cycling of various elements through the atmosphere. Many aspects about the origin of marine aerosols and their impact on atmospheric processes are still poorly known at present and this lack of understanding stems in part from the relatively few measurements which have been performed in the most pristine areas of the earth. In order to improve our knowledge about the marine aerosol and its formation we established a land-based aerosol sampling station on the western coast of Terceira island (Azores). Here we present the first measurements of a project of sampling atmospheric particulate matter which started in Spring of 1999 and will be extended for one year.