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Published 1980 | public
Book Section - Chapter

Heterogenous condensation and chemical reaction in droplets- application to the heterogenous atmospheric oxidation of SO₂

Abstract

In this chapter we develop a general framework for describing simultaneous chemical reaction and growth of multicomponent liquid droplets. The general framework is then used to study sulfate formation in atmospheric droplets. The formation of secondary particulate species, such as sulfates and nitrates, has been of considerable interest in atmospheric chemistry. Sulfate formation resulting from emissions of SO₂ has been of particular concern. Two paths have been identified for the oxidation of SO₂ to sulfate: (1) Homogeneous, gas-phase oxidation (1, 2). (2) Heterogeneous oxidation in droplets and on aerosol particles (3). Both aspects have received considerable study, however there are still important areas of uncertainty in our understanding of both processes. This chapter focuses on the latter process. The chapter is divided essentially into two parts. In the first part we develop a general theory for calculating the simultaneous growth and composition changes accompanying heterogeneous condensation of gaseous species on a droplet and heterogeneous chemical reaction in the droplet. In the second part we study in some detail heterogeneous oxidation of SO₂ in the aqueous phase by catalytic and noncatalytic mechanisms in order to assess the importance of the various mechanisms.

Additional details

Created:
August 22, 2023
Modified:
October 16, 2023