A simple model for K and Ca enrichment interpretation in Antarctic snow

The presence of surface active fluorescent organic matter (SAFOM) in Antarctic snow, similar to the marine matter, suggests that micro components present at the sea surface, capable of interacting with SAFOM, may be transported via marine aerosol. Experimental evidence is given by the enrichment of SAFOM in the smallest marine aerosol particles and by the interaction of K and Ca with SAFOM. The surfactant concentration at the sea surface during large whitecaps coverage is also studied. A hypothesis for the K and Ca excess, evidenced in Antarctic snow at high altitudes, is proposed by means of a spray drop adsorption layer model (SDALM). This model is the result of an improved analysis of the breaking wave process, and of additional experimental findings. It seems to justify the excess concentration of K and Ca with respect to that expected for marine water compositions in high altitude snow in Antarctica. It may also constitute a more general basis for the interpretation of the fine fraction aerosol composition in remote marine areas.