RESOLVE (Research on Operations-Limiting Visual Extinction) Monitoring Program Plan Evaluation Using Historical Data and Error Analysis

摘要

Three specific issues are analyzed in a major study RESOLVE (Research on Operations-Limiting Visual Extinction) of atmospheric visibility in the California desert. (1) The issue of the contribution of nitrogen dioxide to light extinction is investigated using aircraft measurements taken as part of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Los Angeles/desert transport study, routine historical data for nitrogen dioxide and visual range, and a small amount of data acquired with high-resolution research-type nitrogen dioxide monitoring. (2) An assessment is made of the adequacy of 24-hour particle samples as compared to 8-hour particle samples with respect to characterizing visibility during daylight hours. (3) An investigation is made into the propagation of measurement errors through to the final modeling results for extinction budgets and particle source apportionments for the RESOLVE program.