European Commission | Novel insights on new particle formation derived from a pan-european observing system

The formation of new atmospheric particles involves an initial step forming stable clusters less than a nanometre in size (<~1nm), followed by growth into quasi-stable aerosol particles a few nanometre (~1-10nm) and larger (>~10nm). Although at times, the same species can be responsible for both processes, it is thought that more generally each step comprises differing chemical contributors. Here, we present a novel analysis of measurements from a unique multi-station ground-based observing system which reveals new insights into continental-scale patterns associated with new particle formation. 

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