Reaction Mechanisms of Hydrocarbon Photooxidation in the Troposphere Studied by Cavity Ringdown Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry

California Institute Of Technology, Pasadena CA

Investigators

Abstract

The Environmental Chemical Sciences (ECS) program of the Division of Chemistry (NSF/CHE) and the Atmospheric Chemistry program of the Division of Atmospheric and Geospace sciences (AGS) will support the research project of Prof. Mitchio Okumura of California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Prof. Okumura and his students will employ Cavity Ringdown Spectroscopy (CRDS) to detect free radical intermediates formed during photooxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The project will contribute to our understanding of the chemical reactions that lead to photochemical smog and aerosol formation. Specific data and mechanisms will be provided for air quality models that form the scientific basis for policy decisions regulating anthropogenic emissions related to air pollution and climate change. The project will provide excellent training opportunities for graduate students in a research area of great societal importance and at the forefront of scientific research.