The PIs describe a program of theoretical work on processes occurring on the surfaces of small ice particles in the atmosphere. The plan is to adapt existing models of crystal growth with and without impurities to the cases of atmospheric interest. Focus will be on the effects of foreign gases and impurities, surface heating and surface melting on the growth and evaporation rates of ice particles. The work will be carried out in close cooperation with two groups engaged in relevant laboratory experiments and one group making field measurements, and will build on theoretical work already underway in the PI's group.
