How quickly do ocean spray droplets dry into solid salt particles?

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of water droplets drying out and forming solid salt particles when a bubble in the ocean bursts. The variables that may impact this process are droplet size, salt concentration, relative humidity, air speed, and temperature. However, it is noted that sodium chloride is hygroscopic and may not completely dry out in higher humidity conditions. The conversation also mentions the possibility of finding more information on this topic under "sea spray" or "aerosols".
  • #1
Peter Hessellund
11
0
When a bubble in the ocean bursts water drops are thrown into the air. How fast do these water drops dry out creating solid salt particles? There must be a formula for calculating this and I am guessing that the following variables must figure in the formula:
- Droplet size
- Salt concentration (Lets just assume that is is NaCl)
- Relative humidity
- Air speed around the particle
- Temperature

Or maybe someone just made a measurement.
 
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  • #2
I doubt they ever do dry out ... sodium chloride is hygroscopic . It absorbs moisture from the atmosphere when the relative humidity is above 75%
 
  • #3
But they must dry out when the humidity is below 75% In my case when the air enters a ventilation duct where the air is heated slightly.
 
  • #4
Peter Hessellund said:
Or maybe someone just made a measurement.
Look under "sea spray", or "aerosols", and see if you can find out some information for your inquiry.
 

1. Why does salt dry faster than other particles?

Salt has a high surface area and low molecular weight, which allows it to absorb moisture quickly and evaporate it just as quickly. This makes it dry faster than other particles with lower surface area and higher molecular weight.

2. Does the temperature affect the drying speed of salt particles?

Yes, temperature plays a significant role in the drying speed of salt particles. Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation, thus making salt particles dry faster. On the other hand, lower temperatures slow down the drying process.

3. What is the ideal humidity level for salt particles to dry quickly?

The ideal humidity level for salt particles to dry quickly is below 50%. At this level, the air is relatively dry, allowing the salt particles to absorb moisture quickly and evaporate it at a faster rate.

4. How does air circulation affect the drying speed of salt particles?

Good air circulation can significantly increase the drying speed of salt particles. It helps to remove the moisture from the surrounding air, creating a more favorable environment for the salt particles to dry quickly.

5. Can the size of salt particles affect their drying speed?

Yes, the size of salt particles can impact their drying speed. Smaller particles have a larger surface area-to-volume ratio, making them dry faster than larger particles. This is because a larger surface area allows for more moisture absorption and evaporation.

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