Interactive comment on “ Are black carbon and soot the same ? ” by P . R . Buseck et al . : Disagree - ment on proposed nomenclature

Buseck et al (2012) raise important issues of terminology in dealing with light-absorbing carbonaceous aerosols. Although some might argue that the points raised by Buseck et al. are "only" terminology or nomenclature, not science, we would respond that terminology is essential to doing and communicating and advancing science. A rose by any other name would smell as sweet, but still it useful to have a mutually agreed on definition of "rose." So, although, as elaborated below, we disagree with the nomenclature suggested by Buseck et al., we applaud them for raising an important issue. We wholly concur with their statement that "confusion can be avoided if terms are defined and widely understood," and it is for that reason that we submit this Interactive Comment.