Unipolar and bipolar aerosol charging as time continuous Markov processes

The acquisition of charge by aerosol particles is well-known to be stochastic in nature. We review the principles of charging using the conceptually and computationally clear language of continuous time Markov processes. A novel numeric approach is presented that can be used to calculate the time evolution of various particle charging processes. Its modular character makes it easy to implement and allows for quick adaptation to specific problems. We conclude with the application of ergodicity for finite state-space Markov processes in order to determine stationary charge distributions in case of bipolar charging.

Automated summary

This article discusses the stochastic nature of charging in aerosol particles, utilizing the framework of continuous time Markov processes to analyze the principles of charging and introducing a novel numerical method for calculating the time evolution of charging processes. Additionally, the application of ergodicity is used to determine stationary charge distributions in the case of bipolar charging in finite state-space Markov processes.