Atmospheric hydroperoxides measured over a rural site in central Japan during spring: helicopter-borne measurements

Abstract

Measurements of the concentrations of H₂O₂ and methyl hydroperoxide (MHP), O₃, and SO₂ over Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture, Japan were performed in March using a helicopter. H₂O₂ concentrations were higher at an altitude of approximately 2,400 m (8,000 ft). The H₂O₂ concentrations (< 0.8 ppb) in the spring were much lower than those observed during the summer observations. MHP was also higher in the high-altitude atmosphere. Lower concentrations of H₂O₂ were observed when high air pollutants were actively transported from Asian continent. The concentrations of H₂O₂ were mostly lower than those of SO₂; this condition is called oxidant limitation. If H₂O₂ concentration rises in cold months, the acidification of cloud water may be accelerated at high elevations in central Japan where air pollution is actively transported.