Sources of elevated organic acids in the mountainous background atmosphere of southern China

Formic acid (FA) and acetic acid (AA) are pivotal organic acids in the troposphere, significantly influencing atmospheric chemistry. However, their abundance and sources in the mountainous background atmosphere remain underexplored. We undertook continuous measurements of FA and AA in Nanling mountains, southern China, during autumn 2020 using a high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-CIMS). Both acids registered higher concentrations than in other global high-altitude or forested locations, averaging at 0.89 (max: 3.91) and 0.95 (max: 3.52) ppbv for FA and AA, respectively. High concentrations of FA and AA in this forested background area arose from secondary formation and biomass burning, collectively contributing 71 % to 89 %. During episodes, FA and AA concentrations surged 2–3 times, owing to the enhanced atmospheric oxidation capacity. The secondary FA production was predominantly due to isoprene oxidation among the VOC precursors studied. However, observed inconsistencies between calculated and actual FA concentrations suggest overlooked precursors or mechanisms warranting further investigation. Our findings can enhance the understanding of organic acid characteristics and the interplay of biogenic and anthropogenic sources in the background atmosphere.