Absorption of solar radiation by charged water droplets

Abstract

We consider the absorption of solar radiation by charge accumulated on the surface of an otherwise neutral water droplet. We estimate the order of magnitude of the additional contribution from the surface charges to the photoabsorption cross-section. The approximate location and strength of major spectral lines is indicated. This spectral information requires determination of the quantum mechanical energy levels and wave functions of the absorbing system. An approximate calculation is carried out using a simple model for electrons on the surface of the droplet. The implications for atmospheric applications are considered.