Collaborative Research: EAGER--Deployment of a New Photofragmentation Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) Nitrous Acid (HONO) Measurement on FIONA

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EUROCHAMP (Integration of European Simulation Chambers for Investigating Atmospheric Processes) is holding the Formal Intercomparison of Observations of Nitrous Acid (FIONA) at the EUPHORE chambers in Valencia, Spain, in May 2010, and the investigators have been invited to participate. Because of its demonstrated high sensitivity and freedom from known interferences, PF-LIF (photofragmentation - laser induced fluorescence) is a particularly desired measurement technique for FIONA. The investigators plan to attend FIONA under EAGER because of the compressed timeframe prior to deployment for FIONA . Nitrous acid, HONO, is a critical species in the chemistry of the atmosphere. It photolyzes rapidly in the near ultraviolet to produce the hydroxyl radical, OH, and nitric oxide, NO. OH is the primary oxidant in the atmosphere and drives the bulk of atmospheric chemistry; NO, in the presence of volatile organic species, catalyzes the production of OH and thereby ozone. However, understanding of the behavior of HONO is incomplete. A key component to better understanding this important molecule is to ensure that the research community can measure it accurately. This is a joint effort between the Georgia Institute of Technology, where the HONO instrument exists, and the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM). ULM will contribute a field calibration and validation instrument, and deployment and modeling expertise. Working in parallel is important for time reasons, given the mid-2010 FIONA date. The educational impact of collaboration between ULM and GA Tech will allow a highly motivated and self-disciplined undergraduate from ULM to have experience with and access to new technology; to gain exposure to current issues in atmospheric chemistry; and to develop critical thinking skills needed in research. Interaction with a large research university like Gergia Tech provides access to opportunities that ULM cannot provide. This student will be expected to contribute to the science. The University of Louisiana at Monroe is located in the Lower Mississippi Delta region which is historically an economically disadvantaged area. ULM is committed to serving as a gateway to diverse academic studies for citizens of the Lower Mississippi Delta.