Introductory lecture. Overview of tropospheric chemistry: developments during the past quarter century and a look ahead

Abstract

An overview is given of the main processes that affect tropospheric chemistry, in particular regarding the roles that are played by ozone, hydroxyl radicals, methane, carbon monoxide, NO and NO₂. Model calculations are presented of the current concentrations of O₃ and OH, as well as of changes compared with pre-industrial times. Based on these calculations, proposals are presented for atmospheric budgets of CH₄ and CO.

The important roles of the tropics and subtropics in atmospheric chemistry are emphasized and the large changes that are expected in the developing world due to expanding agricultural and industrial activities are described. Finally, a personal view is presented of some research topics which deserve future attention.