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Published on: January 30, 2019
[Differences of Three Methods in Determining Ozone Sensitivity in Nanjing]
Gan-Yu Chen1, Xun Li1, Lin Li1
1Jiangsu Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
This study compared three methods for determining ozone (O3) sensitivity to precursors like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Results showed method disparities, especially during high pollution, impacting abatement strategies.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Air Quality Modeling
- Environmental Science
Context:
- Ozone (O3) is a significant air pollutant in China.
- Effective abatement strategies require understanding O3 sensitivity to precursors.
- Previous methods for assessing O3 sensitivity have limitations.
Purpose:
- To compare three methods for determining O3 sensitivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
- To analyze the performance of these methods during an O3 pollution event in Nanjing.
- To identify the strengths and weaknesses of each method for informing air quality management.
Summary:
- Three methods (photochemical indicator, sensitivity coefficients from a 3D model, and an observation-based model - OBM) were compared using an O3 pollution event in Nanjing.
- The photochemical indicator and sensitivity coefficients showed similar spatial patterns, but differed in identifying O3 sensitivity regimes (VOCs-limited vs. transitional).
- The OBM's accuracy depended on observational data quality, and all three methods showed significant differences during peak pollution, with the photochemical indicator suggesting VOCs-limited conditions while others indicated NOx-limited or transitional regimes.
Impact:
- The study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate methods for assessing O3 sensitivity.
- Findings can help refine air quality models and improve the effectiveness of O3 abatement strategies in China.
- Understanding method-specific biases is crucial for accurate air pollution management and policy development.

