Over the past few decades numerous studies have shown an alarming increase in the concentration of atmospheric particular matter called aerosols resulting from a variety of human activities, ranging from agricultural to combustion of fossil fuels. Besides having serious impacts on the health of all living creatures, these particles can affect planetary radiation budget. Consequences of this change include global temperature shifts and the altering of atmospheric and oceanic circulation patterns. It is therefore essential to quantify and characterize these particles, while also studying the chemical and physical processes they are subject to
