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The vertical distribution of trace gases in the stratosphere

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Summary

New measurements on the stratospheric distribution of H2, CH4, CO and N2O are presented and used to demonstrate the natural variability of the trace gas concentrations. The present CH4 and H2 measurements and data from older balloon flights are combined to give average vertical profiles. These profiles are compared with water vapor data from various authors to see if the vertical decrease in CH4 is matched by a corresponding increase in H2O. By comparing the average measured profiles to those predicted by a one-dimensional chemical model, profiles of the vertical eddy diffusion coefficientk z are deduced. Generally, a barrier in the low stratosphere and increasing transport in middle and upper stratosphere seem required to match theoretical and experimental profiles. The limitations of the calculatedk z are discussed.

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Author notes

  1. D. H. Ehhalt

    Present address: Institut für Atmosphärische Chemie, Kernforschungsanlage Jülich, 517, Jülich, Germany

Authors and Affiliations

  1. National Center for Atmospheric Research, 80303, Boulder, Colorado

    W. Pollock

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  1. D. H. Ehhalt
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  2. L. E. Heidt
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  3. R. H. Lueb
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  4. W. Pollock
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The National Center for Atmospheric Research is sponsored by the National Science Foundation.

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Ehhalt, D.H., Heidt, L.E., Lueb, R.H. et al. The vertical distribution of trace gases in the stratosphere. PAGEOPH 113, 389–402 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01592926

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01592926

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