Seasonal variations in aerosol characteristics from local pollution and long-range transport at the northern tip of Taiwan
Journal
Sustainable Environment Research
Journal Volume
35
Journal Issue
1
ISSN
2468-2039
Date Issued
2025-12
Author(s)
Chen, Tse-Lun
Hsieh, Wei-Jen
Lai, Hsin-Chih
Lin, Neng-Huei
Tsay, Si-Chee
Chou, Charles C. K.
Abstract
Understanding aerosol characteristics and their influence on cloud condensation nuclei is essential for clarifying the connections between regional air pollution and global climate change. Asian continental outflows, laden with significant anthropogenic emissions, can profoundly affect local air quality. This study examines local pollution (LP) and long-range transport (LRT) events at Cape Fuguei, Taiwan’s northernmost point, during the spring and autumn seasons from 2014 to 2016. We utilized a multi-pronged approach that integrates in-situ measurements, back-trajectory analysis, and satellite observations to differentiate between LP and LRT events and assess their pollutant profiles. Our findings indicate notable distinctions: LRT events, primarily driven by northeastern winds, display higher activation ratios and lower black carbon (BC) ratios compared to LP events. Seasonal variations were pronounced, the activation ratios and geometric mean diameter show a stronger positive correlation during autumn LRT events compared to spring events, suggesting increased particle aging during transport. Wind direction played a crucial role in determining pollutant characteristics. Southwestern winds were associated with higher BC concentrations, indicative of LP sources, while northeastern winds during the autumn/winter monsoon were linked to LRT events with potentially more complex aerosol aging processes. These findings underscore the importance of considering both local and long-range sources in air quality assessments and the potential impacts of changing regional emission patterns on local air quality.
Subjects
Activation ratio
Cloud condensation nuclei
Eastern Asian continental outflow
Long-range transport
Seasonal variation
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Type
journal article