Low nocturnal atmospheric dispersion capacity of the Venezuelan savannah

Abstract

Daily measurements of the variation of CH₄ and O₃ concentration in the Venezuelan savannah have been made over the course of a year. Additionally, temperature profiles with altitude were measured with a tethered balloon for 60 days. The temperature profiles show that during the night, the lower portion of the atmosphere becomes very stable. From the CH₄ and O₃ measurements, it is possible to conclude that a period of low dispersion capacity in the lower atmosphere occurs every day, and that no significant differences exist between the dry and wet seasons. The possible air quality implications are discussed.