Self-Organized Criticality: Emergent Complex Behavior in PM10 Pollution. (6th June 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kai, Shi; Chun-Qiong, Liu; Si-Chuan, Li
• Other Names: Zanis Prodromos Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: International journal of atmospheric sciences. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-06-06
• Subjects: Atmospheric physics -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry; Atmospheric physics; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 551.5
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/419694
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2314-4122

Abstract

Abstract : We analyze long-term time series of daily average PM10 concentrations in Chengdu city. Detrended fluctuation analysis of the time series shows long range correlation at one-year temporal scale. Spectral analysis of the time series indicates 1/ f noise behavior. The probability distribution functions of PM10 concentrations fluctuation have a scale-invariant structure. Why do the complex structures of PM10 concentrations evolution exhibit scale-invariant? We consider that these complex dynamical characteristics can be recognized as the footprint of self-organized criticality (SOC). Based on the theory of self-organized criticality, a simplified sandpile model for PM10 pollution with a nondimensional formalism is put forward. Our model can give a good prediction of scale-invariant in PM10 evolution. A qualitative explanation of the complex dynamics observed in PM10 evolution is suggested. The work supports the proposal that PM10 evolution acts as a SOC process on calm weather. New theory suggests one way to understand the origin of complex dynamical characteristics in PM10 pollution.