Short Lived Intermediates in Tropospheric Chemistry: Ozonolysis and Nitrate Formation

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Abstract

This project is a three-year laboratory study involving the reactions of ozone with alkenes and the reactions of peroxy radicals with nitrogen oxide in the lower troposphere. This study is focused on identifying and characterizing the role of short-lived intermediates (Criegee intermediates) in these reactions. The P.I. is in the process of building a system of flow reactors with infrared and ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy to carry out the study. This project is expected to contribute to a better understanding of atmospheric oxidation mechanisms leading to the formation to tropospheric ozone.