Experiments with a two-dimensional atmospheric model described here show the possibility of a positive climate feedback mechanism through ozone production by lightning. D.A. Hauglustaine et al., 1641-1646. Changes in concentration in the high troposphere have about 10 times more radiative impact than those in the planetary boundary layer. The impact of all three sources on upper tropospheric ozone was significant. Asia was selected for study because its emissions are rapidly increasing, and there is a large potential for future increases.
Results show a significant increase in upper tropospheric ozone over the period.
They do not show any contribution to lower stratospheric ozone loss, but they do highlight the sensitivity of the governing reactions at that altitude to NOx concentrations. With the projected increasing trend of subsonic, high altitude aircraft, the influence of their NOx emissions on lower stratospheric ozone must be considered seriously. A mesoscale chemistry transport model is coupled to a numerical weather prediction model to show that air traffic emissions significantly increase the concentrations of NOx as well as the formation of ozone over the Atlantic Ocean and central Europe. Hosted by the Global Change Electronic Edition . Inc. For more information on Global Change contact the Editorial Office.