The global extent of the mid stratospheric CN layer: A three-dimensional modeling study

The CESM1(WACCM) version has been configured for pure sulfate formation in the stratosphere, including the formation of late winter to spring condensation nuclei (CN), or small particle, layers of enhanced concentration in the polar regions.

CESM1(WACCM) adequately reproduces, with some differences, a layer of observed (r > 3-10 nm) particles originating in the polar stratosphere as measured in both the Antarctic and northern mid latitude regions. The austral CN layer in August has nearly a symmetrical maximum in concentration within the 60–65°S latitude band and extends to 15°S. In comparison in February, the Northern Hemisphere CN layer has less symmetry and extends to only 30°N. CN concentrations in the mid stratosphere are variable due to the polar formation of the CN layer in each hemisphere, and the CN layer accounts for > 50-90% of the r > 3 nm particles in the stratospheric column poleward of 30°S and 35°N during winter and spring.