Scientists find volatile organic compounds are significant in rainwater carbon cycle
Researchers published a review in the Journal of Geophysical Research estimating that volatile organic compounds contribute roughly 100 teragrams of carbon to wet deposition annually.
Previous assumptions about rainwater chemistry
For decades, scientists focused research on inorganic compounds like nitrate and sulfate found in rainwater. Lacking detection methods for volatile organic compounds, researchers long assumed these chemicals were negligible in wet deposition.
New analysis reveals hidden carbon source
Recent improvements in analytical techniques showed that volatile organic compounds are present in rainwater at higher concentrations than thought. A new review estimates about 100 teragrams of carbon come from these compounds every year.
Impact on carbon cycle models
The authors argue these dissolved atmospheric compounds were largely invisible to biogeosciences and represent a missing link in modeling. Climate change and human activities are currently exacerbating the emissions of these reactive chemicals.
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