AS&T virtual collection: Aerosol particle physical chemistry.

This document discusses the importance of understanding the physicochemical properties of aerosol particles in order to comprehend aerosol dynamics and transformations. It highlights the need for new laboratory, theoretical, and modeling studies to address barriers in our understanding of aerosol physical chemistry. The document mentions two conferences that focused on aerosol physical chemistry and microphysics, which provided a platform for interdisciplinary discussions and the exchange of ideas. The document also introduces a special issue that collects papers on topics such as particle surfaces, particle phase, and particle acidity, which address complex aspects of aerosol physical chemistry. Several papers in the special issue explore how different physical properties of aerosols can influence heterogeneous reaction rates involving atmospheric organics. Other papers examine the limitations of experimental techniques and propose improvements, while some highlight the applications of aerosol microphysics in areas such as ice nucleation, cloud activation, and bioaerosols. The document concludes by expressing gratitude to the authors and hopes that the collection stimulates further discussion on these important topics. [Extracted from the article]