Briefly define the following process

Dry deposition
Wet deposition
Photochemistry
Chemical transformation
Cloud process
Dispresion

1 answer

Sure! Here are brief definitions of each of the processes you mentioned:

  1. Dry Deposition: This is the process by which airborne pollutants, such as gases and particulate matter, settle out of the atmosphere onto surfaces (e.g., land, water, vegetation) without the involvement of precipitation.

  2. Wet Deposition: This refers to the removal of pollutants from the atmosphere via precipitation (rain, snow, sleet). Pollutants can be absorbed or adsorbed onto water droplets or ice crystals and are then deposited to the ground when precipitation occurs.

  3. Photochemistry: This is the study of chemical reactions that are initiated or catalyzed by light, especially ultraviolet light. In atmospheric science, photochemistry plays a crucial role in the formation and transformation of pollutants and can lead to the generation of secondary pollutants, such as ozone.

  4. Chemical Transformation: This process involves changes in the chemical composition of substances in the atmosphere due to reactions with other chemicals, light, or environmental conditions. It plays a significant role in the fate and transport of pollutants.

  5. Cloud Process: This encompasses the formation, development, and behavior of clouds within the atmosphere, including processes such as condensation, evaporation, and precipitation. Clouds are essential for weather and climate systems and influence the transport and deposition of airborne pollutants.

  6. Dispersion: This refers to the spreading of particles or pollutants in the atmosphere due to wind and other meteorological factors. Dispersion affects the concentration and distribution of pollutants over an area, influencing air quality and environmental impacts.