Extended Data Figure 8. Relationship between cluster formation energies and equilibrium evaporation/condensation rates.

Estimated ELVOC vapour mixing ratios versus the ΔG_{278 K} at which the condensation and evaporation rates of the cluster at 278 K are in equilibrium^68,69. For example, a formation free energy of −15.3 kcal mol⁻¹ corresponds to equal rates for particle evaporation and vapour condensation at 278 K and 1 p.p.t.v. ELVOC vapour mixing ratio (2.6 × 10⁷cm⁻³). The evaporation rate increases by a factor of 10 for each 1.27 kcal mol⁻¹ reduction of the cluster formation energy.