Cloud condensation nuclei from dimethyl sulphide in the natural marine boundary layer: remote vs. in-situ production

Abstract

In this modelling study, we have compared two scenario's for the production of cloud condensation nuclei from DMS. The first assumes that DMS emission, chemical reaction and subsequent aerosol formation and growth all take place within the marine boundary layer. The second assumes that DMS is transported to the free troposphere, where it is transformed into aerosol particles that eventually subside back to the boundary layer. Only the second scenario predicts aerosol concentrations, cloud condensation nuclei in particular, that correspond with the observations. The important role of coagulation in this second scenario also offers an explanation for the observed constancy of the marine boundary layer aerosol. -Authors