Abstract |
The high spatial and temporal variability of aerosol concentrations makes the investigation of their physical and chemical properties in global scale crucial in order to estimate their total climatic effect. Mediterranean Basin aerosol is of special interest for global climate research since a variety of aerosol types can be found there. The environmental research station of the University of Crete at Finokalia has been pointed out as an anchor station for the Eastern Mediterranean basin.
As we know, the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with a particle is been described mathematically by Maxwell’s equations. But, the complexity of the calculations required to solve these equations for a random particle distribution makes this method prohibitive. For this reason, Gustav Mie developed a theory in 1908 to simplify these calculations. Mie theory is an approximate approach because aerosols are perceived as spherical particles and further considers that the medium in which are located is homogeneous.
So, the basic purpose of thesis is to study theoretically the scattering of light by small particles, using Mie-Lorenz light scattering model. By this model we are able to predict scattering coefficients and compare them to the experimental data taken from the environmental research station of the university. Further, we also tried to parameterize the scattering dependence on relative humidity. As a suspension absorbs water and grows, its surface is likely to show abnormalities that would change its perceived sphericity and homogeneity. Moreover, the absorption of water affects the refractive index of the particle because the refractive index of water is lower than other compounds.
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