The Influence of Relative Humidity and Pollution on the Meteorological Optical Range During Rainy and Dry Months in Mexico City
The Meteorological Optical Range (<i>MOR</i>) is a measurement of atmospheric visibility. Visibility impairment has been linked to increased aerosol levels in the air. This study conducted statistical analyses using meteorological, air pollutant concentration, and <i>MOR</i>...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2024-11-01
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| Series: | Atmosphere |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4433/15/11/1382 |
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| Summary: | The Meteorological Optical Range (<i>MOR</i>) is a measurement of atmospheric visibility. Visibility impairment has been linked to increased aerosol levels in the air. This study conducted statistical analyses using meteorological, air pollutant concentration, and <i>MOR</i> data collected in Mexico City from August 2014 to December 2015 to determine the factors contributing to haze occurrence (periods when <i>MOR</i> < 10,000 m), defined using a light scatter sensor (PWS100). The outcomes revealed seasonal patterns in PM<sub>2.5</sub> and relative humidity (<i>RH</i>) for haze occurrence along the year. PM<sub>2.5</sub> levels during hazy periods in the dry season were higher compared to the wet season, aligning with periods of poor air quality (PM<sub>2.5</sub> > 45 μg/m<sup>3</sup>). Pollutant-to-CO ratios suggested that secondary aerosols’ production, led by SO<sub>2</sub> conversion to sulfate particles, mainly impacts haze occurrence during the dry season. Meanwhile, during the rainy season, the PWS100 registered haze events even with PM<sub>2.5</sub> values close to 15 μg/m<sup>3</sup> (considered good air quality). The broadened distribution of extinction efficiency during the wet period and its correlation with <i>RH</i> suggest that aerosol water vapor uptake significantly impacts visibility during this season. Therefore, attributing poor visibility strictly to poor air quality may not be appropriate for all times and locations. |
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| ISSN: | 2073-4433 |