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.