Climatology of the average water-soluble volume fraction of atmospheric aerosol

The average water-soluble volume fraction of atmospheric aerosol particles was inferred from measurements at three different locations across Central Europe. Together with a comprehensive literature review these data sets are classified into four aerosol types. The classified data are parameterized as a function of particle size using a logarithmic normal distribution function, which seems most appropriate to represent the hygroscopicity maximum in the accumulation size range. This parameterization can be used as a simplified input parameter for various model calculations. In addition, a summary on water-soluble volume fractions and hygroscopic growth factors is presented along with a short overview of hygroscopicity measurement principles and a basic model for calculating the water-soluble volume fraction from hygroscopic growth factors.