The Characteristic Time Scales of Condensation and Coagulation in Ion-induced Nucleation

摘要

The characteristic time scales of the condensation, coagulation and recombination during ion-induced nucleation have been investigated. The classical theory for ion-induced nucleation of water and sulfuric acid has been used in these calculations. The effect of the Coulomb potential on coagulation and condensation has also been taken into account. The results show that in certain conditions, with low pre-existing particle concentrations and high atmospheric temperatures, the new particles can grow to the sizes they are stable even without electric charge. This system is however very sensitive to changes in pre-existing aerosol particle concentration and temperature.