An aerosol climatology for a rapidly growing arid region (southern Arizona): Major aerosol species and remotely sensed aerosol properties

摘要: [1] This study reports a comprehensive characterization of atmospheric aerosol particle properties in relation to meteorological and back trajectory data the southern Arizona region, which includes two fastest growing metropolitan areas United States (Phoenix Tucson). Multiple sets (MODIS, AERONET, OMI/TOMS, MISR, GOCART, ground-based measurements) are used examine monthly trends composition, optical depth (AOD), size. Fine soil, sulfate, organics dominate PM2.5 mass region. Dust strongly influences region between March July owing dry hot conditions patterns. Because monsoon precipitation begins typically July, dust levels decrease, while AOD, organic reach their maximum because summertime photochemistry moisture. Evidence points biogenic volatile compounds being significant source secondary this Biomass burning also is shown be major contributor carbonaceous budget leading enhanced elemental carbon aloft at sky-island site north Tucson (Mt. Lemmon). Phoenix exhibits different for components comparison with other sites strong influence fossil anthropogenic dust. Trend analyses 1988 2009 indicate that strongest statistically reductions carbon, increases fine soil during spring (March–May) select sites. These results can explained by population growth, land-use changes, improved controls.