Aerosol depletion and deposition in forests - a model analysis

• A system of partial differential equations is developed to describe an aerosol entering from an open field into a downwind forest, where deposition and turbulent transfer affect particle concentration. The model considers the interplay between forest structure, open field and forest aerodynamics and aerosol characteristics. The modelling problem is broken down into a set of simpler submodels which can be refined or simplified individually. Model results suggest, basically, significant horizontal (vertical) depletion of super-μm particles downwind from the forest edge (downwards from the canopy top). Distinct edge effects in deposition rates are common. In certain cases vertical exchange processes predominate, leading to enrichment of the aerosol. Sub-μm particles (unless extremely small) are subject to almost negligible depletion and edge effects. Deposition of super-μm particle oriented aerosols are governed by a complex interaction between particle size, forest structure and aerodynamics whereas deposition of sub-μm particles is simply controlled by particle concentration and forest structure. Under certain conditions (dense homogenous forests) aerosol particle concentration across the open field to forest roughness transition increases again after initial depletion. 

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Natural Resources Management

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