Title
Climatological study of transport to the PICO-NARE site using atmospheric backward trajectories
Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering (MS)
College, School or Department Name
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Advisor
Richard E Honrath
Abstract
This study developed a transport climatology to the PICO-NARE station, in the central North Atlantic Ocean, using a 40-year set of atmospheric back trajectories. The trajectory set was subjected to a cluster analysis in order to group trajectories into six flow patterns, or clusters. An air flow probability analysis was conducted in conjunction with the cluster analysis in order to determine the source regions for flow to the site. Seasonal differences in the flow patterns were found, which included enhanced westerly flow in the winter, decreased westerly flow in the summer, and spring and fall having moderate westerly flow. The North Atlantic Oscillation had a significant impact on the winter and fall seasons and less significant impacts during spring and summer. The results of the climatology can be used in conjunction with measurements of ozone, CO, NOx, and NOy, which are currently being measured at the site, to develop a long-term, seasonal climatology of transport of pollutants to the central North Atlantic.
Recommended Citation
Owen, Robert Christopher, "Climatological study of transport to the PICO-NARE site using atmospheric backward trajectories", Master's Thesis, Michigan Technological University, 2003.