Atmospheric partitioning and the air–water exchange of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a large shallow Chinese lake (Lake Chaohu).

Highlights: [•] Levels and distribution of atmospheric and water PAHs were studied in Lake Chaohu. [•] The monthly diffusive air–water exchange flux were estimated by a two-film model. [•] PAH16 levels in atmosphere and water were significantly correlated with temperature. [•] Significant correlations between gas-particle partition and and Log K oa. [•] PAH levels in water and gas were the most important factors for air–water exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]