EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Huneeus et al. 2006
Huneeus, N., Gallardo, L. and Rutllant, J.A. (2006). Offshore transport episodes of anthropogenic sulfur in northern Chile: Potential impact on the stratocumulus cloud deck. Geophysical Research Letters 33: doi: 10.1029/2006GL026921. issn: 0094-8276.

An outstanding meteorological feature appearing off the coast in Central and Northern Chile is the persistent stratus cloud deck under the subtropical Pacific High. It has a large impact on the regional and global energy balance and atmospheric circulation. In connection with mid-latitude synoptic-scale disturbances, subsiding easterly flow down the subtropical Andes often occurs in Northern Chile allowing large anthropogenic emissions of oxidized sulfur that take place in the region to reach the stratus deck. We explore the potential impact of anthropogenic emitted sulfur on the stratus deck associated with strong easterly flow events that occur on the average 4 to 8 times per year. A representative transport event is simulated using a 3-D transport chemistry model and the results are compared with satellite observations of cloud droplet number concentration. Although not conclusive, this preliminary study reveals a potential perturbation of the subtropical stratocumulus deck due to anthropogenic sulfur aerosols.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Atmospheric Composition and Structure, Pollution, urban and regional (0305, 0478, 4251), Atmospheric Processes, Clouds and aerosols, Atmospheric Processes, Regional modeling
Journal
Geophysical Research Letters
http://www.agu.org/journals/gl/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit