Gas phase UV absorption cross-sections for a series of hydroxycarbonyls

► The UV absorption cross-sections of a series hydroxycarbonyls have been measured. ► This work provides the first UV cross-sections for three hydroxycarbonyls. ► Such data are required for laboratory studies related to photochemical experiments. ► The tropospheric photolysis lifetimes of these compounds have been estimated. ► Photolysis could be an important removal process for these species in troposphere.