Photochemistry of Atmospheric Nitrates

California Institute Of Technology, Pasadena CA

Investigators

Abstract

Laboratory studies of the visible and near infrared photochemistry of a number of nitrates (nitric acid, peroxynitric acid, and peroxyacetyl nitrate) will be performed. These compounds are formed via the recombination of nitrogen radicals with organic or odd hydrogen radicals, and can be transported over long distances. Photolysis of these compounds regenerates radicals which influence the production and destruction rate of ozone in the troposphere and stratosphere. It is possible that the importance of photolysis of these nitrates compared to other sink processes has been underestimated in the past.