AERONET data–based determination of aerosol types

• DOI: 10.5094/apr.2015.077
• Publication Date: 2015-03-23T09:09:18Z
• Authors: Fuyi Tan; Hwee San Lim; Khiruddin Abdullah; Tiem Leong Yoon; Brent Holben
• Keywords: AERONET; Angstrom exponent; Sun photometer; Seasonality

Aerosols are among the most interesting topics investigated by researchers because of their complicated characteristics and poor quantification. Moreover, significant uncertainties associated with changes in Earth's radiation budget. Previous studies have shown numerous difficulties challenges quantifying aerosol influences. In addition, heterogeneity from loading properties, including spatial, temporal, size, composition features, presents a challenge. this study, we over two regions different environmental conditions sources. The study sites Penang Kuching Malaysia, where ground–based AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET) sun–photometer was deployed. types aerosol, such as biomass burning, urban/industrial, marine, dust aerosols, for both were identified analyzing optical depth angstrom exponent. Seasonal monsoon variation results characteristics, aerosols that dominant Kuching. flow trend patterns seven–day back–trajectory frequency plotted Hybrid Single–Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model illustrated distinct origins trans–boundary Finally, improved our findings Malaysian using AERONET data Singapore Indonesia. Similarities properties distribution (referred to homogeneous aerosol) observed Penang–Singapore Kuching–Pontianak sites. completely locations western (Penang–Singapore) eastern (Kuching–Pontianak) parts South China Sea. This is result spatial temporal heterogeneity. heterogeneities portions Sea provide information on natural or anthropogenic processes take place.