Saharan dust as a causal factor of hemispheric asymmetry in aerosols and cloud cover over the tropical Atlantic Ocean

摘要: Previous studies showed that, over the global ocean, there is no noticeable hemispheric asymmetry in cloud fraction CF. This contributes to balance solar radiation reaching sea surface northern and southern hemispheres. In current study, we focus on tropical Atlantic 30° N–30° S, which characterized by significant amounts of Saharan dust dominating other aerosol species North Atlantic. Our main point Atlantic, not only responsible for pronounced asymmetry, but also cover along Air Layer SAL. Over July, SAL, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer CF data up 0.8–0.9. SAL together with clouds Intertropical Convergence Zone 20% asymmetry. leads imbalance strong radiation, reaches between South and, consequently, affects climate formation During 10-year study period July 2002–June 2012, NASA Aerosol Reanalysis aka MERRAero when optical thickness AOT was most particularly averaged separately one order magnitude higher than that presence such exceeded 20%. Both Multiangle measurements were agreement seasonal variations Hemispheric total March maximal. September October, season found cover.