Formaldehyde Variability in the Remote Troposphere

As both an oxidation marker and a radical precursor, formaldehyde (HCHO) is central to tropospheric chemistry. Global observations from NASA’s Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) mission indicate significant gradients in the latitudinal and vertical distribution of HCHO. With the aid of a 0-D box model (F0AM), we leverage the full suite of ATom measurements to quantify the drivers of HCHO variability along the ATom flight track. Specifically, we compare the relative roles of oxidative capacity and hydrocarbon loading in controlling the HCHO budget. We also consider the impact of convection on HCHO enhancements in the tropical troposphere. Results are interpreted within the context of global methane loss, ozone production, and potential applications of orbital HCHO column observations.