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Changing patterns in aerosol vertical distribution over South and East Asia
M Venkat Ratnam1, P Prasad2, S T Akhil Raj2
1National Atmospheric Research Laboratory, Gadanki, 517112, India. vratnam@narl.gov.in.
Scientific Reports
|January 12, 2021
Summary
Aerosol concentrations are changing vertically over Asia. India shows pollutants lifting to higher altitudes, while China sees a general decrease, influenced by climate change and meteorology.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Climate Science
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Aerosol concentration patterns over Asia are changing, with increases in India and decreases in China.
- The vertical distribution of aerosols in a changing climate remains poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate rapid changes in aerosol vertical distribution over South and East Asia.
- To understand the drivers behind observed aerosol trends in India and China.
Main Methods:
- Utilized long-term satellite observations from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIOP).
- Employed the ERA-Interim reanalysis model to analyze atmospheric dynamics.
Main Results:
- Observed a significant decrease in boundary layer aerosols and an increase in free troposphere aerosols over India.
- Noticed a consistent decrease in aerosol concentrations across all altitudes over China.
- Related decreasing Aerosol Optical Depth in northwest India to increased precipitation and vegetation growth.
- Identified significant influences of the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation (QBO), El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), and solar cycle on aerosol concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Changing climate dynamics, including increased convection, contribute to the lifting of pollutants in India.
- Background meteorology and atmospheric dynamics are crucial factors in altering aerosol vertical distribution patterns.
- Regional climate variations significantly impact aerosol behavior and distribution across Asia.
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