Exploring Nighttime Tropospheric Chemistry via Hydrocarbon Measurements

Ohio University, Athens OH

Investigators

Abstract

This project is an investigation of the nighttime chemistry of isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) in a rural forested area. Previous studies have observed surprisingly rapid nighttime decay of this reactive biogenic hydrocarbon. Recent observations suggest that the rapid decay is caused by unexpectedly large nighttime concentrations of OH radicals. This study will examine the reactivity of nighttime air using tower and airborne measurements of isoprene and several anthropogenic alkenes. This research will be conducted as part of the Program for Research on Oxidants, Photochemistry, Emissions, and Transport (PROPHET) at Pellston, Michigan.