The Formation of Secondary Organic Aerosol (SOA) And Effect Global Climate
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Abstract
Secondary Organic Aerosols (SOA) are a major component of atmospheric particulate matter and play a significant role in influencing global climate and air quality. SOA are formed through the atmospheric oxidation of volatile organic compounds originating from both natural and anthropogenic sources, followed by the partitioning of low-volatility products into the aerosol phase. These particles affect the Earth’s radiative balance directly by scattering and absorbing solar radiation and indirectly by altering cloud formation, cloud albedo, and precipitation processes through their activity as cloud condensation nuclei. The formation, composition, and climatic impacts of SOA are highly sensitive to environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, oxidant availability, and emission patterns. Despite extensive research, large uncertainties remain in quantifying SOA formation pathways and their interactions with clouds and radiation in climate models. This study reviews the mechanisms of SOA formation and evaluates their direct and indirect effects on global climate, highlighting current challenges and future research needs.
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