Articles tagged with Atmospheric Chemistry
Research by Lancaster University has found elevated levels of toxic chemicals, known as 'forever' chemicals, in the Arctic Ocean. These chemicals, used in products like stain-proof uniforms and non-stick pans, can accumulate in sea ice due to long-range transport from the atmosphere.
Scientists at PSI analysed chemical compounds directly in aerosols and observed dissociation and release of gaseous formic acid. The findings will improve understanding of global processes involved in cloud formation and air pollution.
Research from Harvard suggests that reducing formaldehyde emissions could be more effective at reducing extreme wintertime haze than focusing solely on sulfur dioxide. Formaldehyde is formed by the reaction of SO2 with formaldehyde in clouds or fog droplets, and its sources are primarily vehicles and industrial facilities.
The ozone layer has continued to decline in the lower stratosphere, contrary to expectations that it would have recovered by the middle of the century. Satellite measurements show a decrease in ozone concentrations at latitudes between 60° S and 60° N since the Montreal Protocol banned ozone-depleting substances in 1989.
Researchers measured urban nonmethane volatile organic compound flux, finding oxygenated compounds account for a significant portion of unaccounted emissions. Current atmospheric chemistry and climate models may underestimate global anthropogenic NMVOC emissions due to this unexpected large proportion.
A new study published in Nature found that Earth's ancient upper atmosphere contained about the same amount of oxygen as today, with a methane haze layer separating the oxygen-rich upper layer from the lower, oxygen-starved atmosphere. This challenges the accepted view that Earth's ancient atmosphere was oxygen-poor.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered ethylenedione, a diradical molecule that was previously thought to be elusive. The discovery has significant implications for understanding radical molecular species, industrial processes, and potentially even atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling.
James Brogan, a double major in physics and chemistry, has been awarded a Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for his research on aerosol behavior and its effects on human health. He plans to combine physics and medicine to advance techniques in medical physics.
Researchers detect human fingerprint of industrial pollutants in Borneo rainforest, revealing impact on ozone layer and forest health. Air pollution from East Asia affects air quality in equatorial Southeast Asia, introducing chemicals to the stratosphere.
Researchers have discovered disturbing climate trends near Earth's surface, highlighting the impact of aerosols on cloud formation and human health. The study, led by Kimberly Prather and Vicki Grassian, aims to improve our understanding of aerosol chemistry and its effects on the environment.
A study published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics predicts that most of the world's population will face degraded air quality by 2050 if man-made emissions continue as usual. The average world citizen will experience similar air pollution to today's average East Asian citizen, resulting in severe health effects.
A Harvard University study reveals that circumpolar rivers are the primary source of toxic mercury in the Arctic, surpassing atmospheric forces. The discovery has significant implications for protecting the health of northern populations and the environment.
The 'Cleanair' system reduces building energy consumption by up to 25%, saving CO2 emissions and improving indoor air quality. Lab tests have proven its effectiveness in removing various pollutants, including particles, viruses, and volatile organic compounds, making it a game-changer for asthmatics and overall health.
Six University of Miami students were selected as 2010 NOAA/Ernest F. Hollings Scholars, achieving this prestigious recognition for the second consecutive year. The recipients are recognized for their academic excellence and potential to pursue careers in oceanic and atmospheric science.
Scientists from KIT have successfully measured the chlorine compound ClOOCl in the ozone layer, confirming its role in stratospheric ozone destruction. This discovery disproves doubts on polar ozone chemistry expressed by American researchers.
The formation of aerosols in the atmosphere is a major source of uncertainty in climate predictions. Researchers are working to understand how aerosols form, particularly at the molecular level. The interaction between organic acids and sulfuric acid can facilitate aerosol formation by creating a critical nucleus.
Dr. Jose L. Jimenez receives the 2010 UM Rosenstiel Award for his pioneering work on aerosol measurement techniques, addressing critical questions regarding climate change and air quality. His research group has participated in numerous field measurement missions with airborne and ground site deployments of instruments.
Scientists will investigate how air pollution contributes to climate changes in the Arctic by analyzing air and aerosol samples collected during the campaign. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of atmospheric chemistry and climate effects in the region.
A UI researcher emphasizes the importance of understanding molecular processes in solving environmental issues, as demonstrated by the case of Antarctic ozone thinning. She advocates for further research on molecular assembly and disassembly to safely recycle materials from outdated computers.
Scientists at Ohio State University have created a faster method to study the Earth's atmosphere by utilizing laboratory-based spectroscopy techniques. This new approach enables researchers to quickly identify and remove interference signals from molecules in gas systems, leading to more accurate measurements of atmospheric composition.
Roger Atkinson, a leading atmospheric chemist, has been elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union. His pioneering research on atmospheric reactions and photochemical smog has received recognition from various quarters. He has contributed to the development of analytical and experimental methods for researchers.
Researchers have discovered that halogen ions on the ocean's surface play a significant role in atmospheric chemistry, influencing ozone production and potentially exacerbating respiratory problems. The study found that iodide and bromide ions were more likely to react with other chemicals, leading to increased ozone formation.
Researchers at NASA find evidence of ozone-destroying chlorine peroxide in the stratosphere over Polar Regions. The molecule triggers destruction when absorbing sunlight, breaking down ozone and forming again through a continuous cycle.
Chemist Richard L. Hahn's work with solar neutrinos reveals insights into the sun's behavior and duration. His research uses giant tanks to detect neutrino collisions, which may lead to a re-evaluation of fundamental theories.
Dr. Mario Molina, Nobel laureate and environmental science professor, will address his experiences as a minority in the sciences at the American Chemical Society meeting. He will also discuss his work on ozone depletion and atmospheric chemistry.
The 215th national meeting of the American Chemical Society will feature over 4,700 papers on various topics including cancer therapy, global warming, and chemistry education. The event will also include a chemistry exposition with over 200 companies showcasing their products and services.
A multiyear project called EXPRESSO aims to explore how vegetation and fires interact with the atmosphere in tropical regions. The study will help define the degree of influence central Africa has on global chemistry cycles.
A team of scientists from the US, France, Italy, CAR, and Congo conduct a rare study of the African atmosphere, exploring biomass burning, rainforest-savanna boundaries, and global air chemistry. The EXPRESSO project collects chemical data to understand how vegetation and fires interact with the atmosphere.