Dissertation/Thesis Abstract

The distribution and movement of black carbon and other chemical impurities and the effects on snow albedo in New Hampshire
by Amante, Jacqueline M., M.S., University of New Hampshire, 2014, 111; 1526062
Abstract (Summary)

Albedo is an important climate regulator due to its influence on the Earth's surface energy budget. Snow covered landscapes (permanent or seasonal cover) have much higher albedo than any other surfaces on earth. Albedo values in snow covered regions can change significantly and quickly; typically decreasing, depending on the chemical impurities present within the snow (Warren & Wiscombe, 1980). Understanding albedo requires knowledge about the concentrations and distribution of chemical impurities within the snow (Gallet et al., 2011). In order to better understand how chemical impurities affect albedo, chemical depth profiles and spectral albedo measurements were collected frequently (every other day-daily) at six (2012-3) or three (2013-4) sites in New Hampshire, USA throughout the entirety of winter. Chemical inventories were compared to spectral albedo data to find correlations between chemical impurity concentrations and distribution and the consequent reduction in albedo, especially during periods of melt. The chemical depth profiles were also investigated during periods of melt to determine a relative rate of ion elution or amplification within the snowpack.

Indexing (document details)
Advisor: Dibb, Jack
School: University of New Hampshire
School Location: United States -- New Hampshire
Source: MAI 53/06M(E), Masters Abstracts International
Subjects: Atmospheric Chemistry, Environmental science, Geochemistry
Keywords: Black Carbon, Melt, Snow, Temperate
Publication Number: 1526062
ISBN: 9781321340662