Nitrogen Dioxide concentration over China from September 24, 2004 till November 7, 2004

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Author:

Ernest Hilsenrath, Lori Perkins, Mark Schoeberl, Pepijn Veefkind

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

NASA

Collection:

NASA GSFC Scientific Visualization Studio

Grade Level:

Secondary, Post-secondary

Abstract:

Nitrogen dioxide, NO2, is a traffic-related pollutant. Emissions are generally highest in urban rather than rural areas. Annual mean concentrations of nitrogen dioxide in urban areas are generally in the range 10-45 ppb, and lower in rural areas. Levels vary significantly throughout the day, with peaks generally occurring twice daily as a consequence of rush hour traffic. Concentrations can be as high as 200 ppb. Particulate matter is very fine and can be carried deep into the lungs where they can cause inflammation and a worsening of the condition of people with heart and lung disease. Further, the problem is not necessarily concentrated in the inner cities. Because many major road - motorway interchange complexes are situated in semi-rural areas, under conditions of near-stationary traffic, a rapid build-up of engine exhaust pollution can occur, which if the low-level atmospheric conditions are correct, will not be dispersed.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Other

Media Format:

Graphics/Photos, Text/HTML, Video

Technical Requirements:

Real player|Need MPEG-2 viewer, such as Visual Circuits HDfocus or Electrosonic HD Video Server

Conditions of Use:

Public Domain
Please give credit to NASA GSFC Scientific Visualization Studio