Atmospheric Chemistry

Atmospheric chemistry is the branch of atmospheric science focused on the chemical composition of the Earth's atmosphere and the intricate chemical processes that occur within it. This field investigates the sources, reactions, transport, and ultimate fate of gases and aerosols from both natural and human-caused (anthropogenic) origins. By studying these interactions, often driven by solar radiation, atmospheric chemists are able to explain and predict critical environmental phenomena, including the formation of smog, the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer, the causes of acid rain, and the changing concentrations of greenhouse gases that influence global climate.

1. Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry
   1. Definition and Scope
      1. Definition of Atmospheric Chemistry
      2. Scope and Objectives
      3. Importance in Environmental Science
      4. Importance in Climate Policy
      5. Importance in Air Quality Management
   2. Interdisciplinary Nature
      1. Connections to Physics
      2. Connections to Biology
      3. Connections to Geology
      4. Connections to Oceanography
      5. Integration with Environmental Science
      6. Integration with Meteorology
   3. Historical Development
      1. Early Air Pollution Observations
      2. Discovery of the Ozone Layer
      3. Identification of Acid Rain Causes
      4. Understanding Photochemical Smog
      5. Antarctic Ozone Hole Discovery
      6. Development of Atmospheric Monitoring
      7. Evolution of Chemical Transport Models