Features of spatial distribution of aerosol characteristics over Arctic seas

Based on data of seven expeditions, we considered the specific features of the spatial distribution of aerosol physicalchemical characteristics over Arctic seas in Russia. It is shown that the average aerosol and black carbon concentrations and aerosol optical depth of the atmosphere decrease by a factor of 2-2.5 in the direction from west to east. A more detailed analysis in the sectors of the Barents and Kara Seas revealed a tendency toward a decrease in aerosol characteristics in the northeast direction. We noted that the average ion concentrations in aerosol composition are close in value over the Barents and Kara Seas. Continental and maritime sources make nearly identical contributions to ion composition of aerosol over these seas.