COMMISSION ON ATMOSPHERIC CHEMISTRY (VI.2)
Number: 620/22/95
Title: Major Concerns and Research Needs in Atmospheric
Chemistry in the Tropics
Coordinator(s): T.M.
Tavares
Remarks: World Meteorology Organization
Completion Date: 1997 - - project terminated
Objective:
The objective of this project is to point out major differences
in the atmospheric chemistry in the tropics, its consequence to
measurement techniques and network designing as well as research
needs. Atmospheric chemistry in the tropical troposphere exhibits
substantial differences from that at temperate latitudes. However,
this subject has not received so much attention in research as temperate
chemistry and the resultant lack of knowledge precludes predictive
ability required for policy development. The principal difference
between oxidant chemistry in tropical troposphere versus mid-latitudes
rests in the different mix of reactive chemicals. The tropical environment
is quite rich in naturally emitted hydrocarbons and is characteristically
low in nitrogen oxides. This situation differs markedly from environment
such as Los Angeles and Athens, which environments have hitherto
received much study. It may be anticipated that oxidant formation
is entirely limited by nitrogen oxides, but even this is not well
established. Specific differences pertinent to particular locations
may also include biomass burn effluents and emissions from alternative
fuels, such as ethanol.
Progress:
Work is continuing with a draft report in preparation for end of
1998.
Last update: 14 June 1999
Project terminated 31 dec 2001