Potential influence of fine aerosol chemistry on the optical properties in a semi-arid region

The current understanding regarding the potential influence of aerosol chemistry on the optical properties does not satisfy accurate evaluation of aerosol radiative effects and precise determination of aerosol sources. We conducted a comprehensive study of the potential influence of aerosol chemistry on the optical properties in a semi-arid region based on various observations. Organic matter was the main contributor to the scattering coefficients followed by secondary inorganic aerosols in all seasons. We further related aerosol absorption to elemental carbon, organic matter, and mineral dust. Results showed that organic matter and mineral dust contributed to >40% of the aerosol absorption in the ultraviolet wavelengths. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the absorption of organic matter and mineral dust in addition to that of elemental carbon. We further investigated the potential influence of chemical composition, especially of organic matter and mineral dust on the optical parameters. Mineral dust contributed to higher absorption efficiency and lower scattering efficiency in winter. The absorption Ångström exponent (AAE) was mostly sensitive to organic matter and mineral dust in winter and spring, respectively; it was relatively high (i.e., 1.68) in winter and moderate (i.e., 1.42) in spring. Unlike in the other seasons, mineral dust contributed to higher mass absorption efficiency in winter. This work reveals the complexity of the relationship between aerosol chemistry and optical properties, and especially the influence of organic matter and mineral dust on aerosol absorption. The results are highly important regarding both regional air pollution and climate. •Organic matter (OM) and mineral dust (MD) are important absorption components.•OM and MD accounted for >40% of the fine aerosol absorption at 370 nm in winter.•OM was the largest contributor to total aerosol scattering in all seasons.•MD was positively correlated to absorption efficiency only in winter.