Abstract

The reactivity, fate, and impact of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in the atmosphere depend on the composition and structure of individual species, as well as oxidant concentrations. In particular, organic nitrates serve as a significant reservoir for NOx. A one-dimensional model is ... Show moreThe reactivity, fate, and impact of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in the atmosphere depend on the composition and structure of individual species, as well as oxidant concentrations. In particular, organic nitrates serve as a significant reservoir for NOx. A one-dimensional model is utilized to investigate the contributions of an extensive set of BVOCs with respect to height above the forest canopy, as well as diurnal variations, at the University of Michigan Biological Station. Measured BVOC emission rates from branch enclosure studies, modeled NO₃ radical concentrations, and measured OH and O₃ concentrations are utilized to drive the model. Known rate constants, aerosol yields, and organic nitrate yields from laboratory studies allow the calculation of the relative rates of oxidant-specific organic nitrate and aerosol production for each BVOC. The individual BVOCs most important to aerosol and organic nitrate formation at different altitudes and times of day can be then examined. Show less