Reactive nitrogen compounds cycle continuously through the environment and are involved in processes that are essential for life. While the impact of reactive nitrogen on atmospheric chemistry and ecosystem health has been demonstrated, additional research is needed to improve scientific understanding of the transport, transformation, and fate of reactive nitrogen. Field studies that measure atmosphere-biosphere exchange of reactive nitrogen can provide useful data for specific locations, and atmospheric chemistry models can help characterize sources and sinks. Associates should be familiar with micrometeorological measurement techniques and bi-directional exchange models.

References

Saylor RD, Myles L, et al: Recent Trends in Gas-Phase Ammonia and PM2.5 Ammonium in the Southeast United States. Journal of the Air and Waste Management Association 65:3: 347-357, 2015. doi:10.1080/10962247.2014.992554

Walker JT, et al: Processes of ammonia air-surface exchange in a fertilized Zea Mays canopy. Biogeosciences 10: 981-998, 2013. doi:10.5194/bg-10-981-2013