Issue
J. Phys. IV France
Volume 139, December 2006
Page(s) 63 - 80
DOI https://doi.org/10.1051/jp4:2006139006
From Regional Climate Modelling to the Exploration of Venus
C. Boutron
J. Phys. IV France 139 (2006) 63-80

DOI: 10.1051/jp4:2006139006

Take a glass of water [1]... - concepts from physical chemistry used in describing the behaviour of aerosol and cloud droplets -

F. Raes

European Commission, DG Joint Research Centre, Institute for Environment and Sustainability, 21020 Ispra (VA), Italy


(Published online: 9 January 2007)

Abstract
This is the text of a lesson explaining the concepts of kinetic gas theory, diffusion theory and thermodynamics used in describing the formation and growth of aerosol and cloud droplets in the atmosphere. The classical Koehler theory and its extensions are derived in a step-wise approach, starting from clean laboratory systems and ending with the polluted atmosphere. The meaning of the Koehler theory is analysed. Some comments follow regarding the central role the theory still plays in atmospheric research today; it indeed forms a formal framework to link air pollution and climate change.



© EDP Sciences 2006