Distribution of Stratospheric Nitric Acid Vapor

Abstract

Stratospheric nitric acid vapor was collected by sorption on cellulose filters impregnated with dibutoxy-ethylpthalate. The sampling was conducted by both stratospheric aircraft and balloons from 53S to 65N up to altitudes of 37 km. Results indicate concentrations increase with higher latitudes. The most concentrated layer extends from about 20 to 27 km in polar regions, and higher at lower latitudes. The present data indicate a seasonal variation in concentration. Stratospheric nitrate does not appear to be appreciably associated with stratospheric aerosol. The observed concentrations are in reasonable agreement with theoretically computed profiles. The transport rate of stratospheric nitric acid into the troposphere balances the computed production rate of stratosphere nitric oxide from nitrous oxide.