What is the particle size of the "DUSSMASS - Dust Surface Mass Concentration" variable from MERRA-2 Reanalyses?

[nick.dirienzo13]

Hi there,

I'm a research assistant currently trying to download historical dust surface concentration data using MERRA-2 in order to best determine when Saharan desert dust storms were (likely/probably) adversely impacting ground-level air quality on the island of Grenada, West Indies. I already intend on downloading the "DUSSMASS25 - Dust Surface Mass Concentration - PM2.5" variable data from MERRA-2. Though, I am also curious about the "DUSSMASS - Dust Surface Mass Concentration" variable.

Would anyone know exactly what particle size is associated with this aerosol variable of "DUSSMASS - Dust Surface Mass Concentration"?

Is it the dust surface mass concentration at the particle size of PM10?

If someone could help me answer this question I would really appreciate it!

Nick

[GES DISC - jimacker]

Hello,

Our MERRA-2 data specialists are formulating a response to your question at this time, and may consult with the MERRA-2 modeling staff before replying. Thanks for asking your question here on the Forum!

[GES DISC - jimacker]

From our MERRA-2 data team at the GES DISC:

Hi Nick,
Thanks for your interest in MERRA-2 data and reaching out to us.

Yes, "DUSSMASS - Dust Surface Mass Concentration" is dust surface mass concentration at the particle size of PM10. You can refer to the FAQs at
https://gmao.gsfc.nasa.gov/reanalysis/MERRA-2/FAQ/ for the specific size of each dust bin.

You may also find this FAQ useful:

- Does MERRA-2 have PM 1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 data?
https://disc.gsfc.nasa.gov/information/faqs?keywords=MERRA-2&title=Does%20MERRA-2%20have%20PM%201.0,%20PM2.5,%20and%20PM10%20data%3F