While experimental studies and analysis continue, theoretical work concerning the properties and reactions of aerosol surfaces is making progress utilizing the computing power available at the San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC), located on the UC San Diego campus. Prof. Francesco Paesani’s research group is using molecular dynamics simulations to better understand the chemical interactions of hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric acids on both water and ice surfaces. These reactions impact the chemical composition of both the atmospheric gaseous and condensed phases. Better quantitative understanding of reactivity on atmospherically relevant surfaces will allow better forecasting of air quality and climatic conditions.
