Phoenix, Arizona, revisited : indications of aerosol effects on O{sub 3}, NO{sub 2}, UV-B, and NO{sub 3}.

Abstract

Fine particulate matter and tropospheric ozone levels are of concern because of their potential for health impacts, as well as their radiative effects. Both ozone and PM-2.5 standards are being exceeded in many urban and regional areas where transport and background levels can appreciably affect observed concentrations. Anthropogenic nitrogen oxides and other primary pollutant species can interact with natural organics to form secondary aerosol products via synthesis of nitric acid and its subsequent reaction with ammonia to yield ammonium nitrate. In addition, natural organics and lower-reactivity organic compounds, particularly aromatic species and monoterpenes, can generate secondary organic aerosols, both of which contribute to the formation of PM-2.5. Long-range transport and chemical transformation of hydrocarbons and NO{sub x} via both photochemical reactions and nighttime chemistry can generate significant regional levels of ozone (O{sub 3}) and other oxidants, such as peroxyacyl nitrates