A13Q-06:
The vertical distribution of volatile organic compounds in the atmosphere as measured during DISCOVER-AQ

Monday, 15 December 2014: 2:55 PM
Armin Wisthaler1,2, Markus Müller3, Tomas Mikoviny1, Philipp Eichler3 and James H Crawford4, (1)University of Oslo, Department of Chemistry, Oslo, Norway, (2)University of Innsbruck, Institute of Ion Physics and Applied Physics, Innsbruck, Austria, (3)University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria, (4)NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
Abstract:
NASA’s DISCOVER-AQ project has produced an unprecedented set of data on the vertical distribution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over four regions in the United States that are affected by poor air quality. Herein, we provide a first comprehensive overview of in-situ VOC data collected from the NASA W-P3B platform during the project’s field phase (2011-2014). Measured species include pure hydrocarbons (e.g. isoprene, benzene and toluene) and oxygenated species (e.g. methanol, acetaldehyde, MVK/MACR). Our initial analysis comprises a phenomenological data description and interpretation, a statistical data evaluation and tracer correlation studies. Furthermore, we will demonstrate on the basis of selected examples how meteorological and chemical processes influence the vertical distribution of VOCs in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Back to: Sources of Planetary Boundary Layer and Lower Free Troposphere Ozone and Variability: From Urban to Remote Regions of the United States III
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