Appendix

B1

Chemistry of Atmospheric Reactions of VOCs Leading to Smog

Figure B1-11 Sensitivity of Reaction Outcomes (Figure 11A) to Reactant Concentrations

Figure B1-11A

Changes in VOC and NOx concentrations are equal at

still another concentration of ozone. Note the
annotation in burgundy.

G.

REACTIVITY METRICS (MIR)

In Chapter 6.5.3.1, the concept of an incremental reactivity

(Equation 6.4) was noted, having been introduced by
Professor Carter. The essence of the concept was twofold:
that a single parameter could classify the potential of any
VOC to produce ozone, and a variety of metrics (scales) of
reactivity in ozone production could be implemented
within the incremental concept.
The simplied kinetic equations noted above, and the
analysis of Figures B1-11 and B1-11A allow one to propose
three metrics:

MIRdMaximum Incremental Reactivity. The

experimenter adjusts the levels of NOx for a 1%
addition of VOCs so that the incremental reactivity rate
to produce ozone has a maximum value given the
operating conditions.

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MOIRdMaximum Ozone Incremental Reactivity. The

experimenter adjusts the levels of NOx for a 1%
addition of VOCs so that the absolute ozone
concentration is at its maximum value given the
operating conditions.
EBIRdEqual Benet Incremental Reactivity. The
experimenter adjusts the level of NOx for a 1% addition
of VOCs so that VOC and NOx reductions are equally
effective in reducing formation of ozone.

The antecedents of all three of these metrics can be found in

Figure B1-11A. Each has been considered as a stand-alone
metric for characterizing VOC chemicals as reactants to
produce ozone.
MIR represents conditions when formation of ozone is
most sensitive to VOC concentrations; MOIR represents
conditions when the concentration of ozone is maximized,
and EBIR represents conditions when ozone is equally
sensitive to changes in VOCs or in the accumulation of
nitrogen dioxide plus nitric oxide (NOx).
The metric which has been most useful since 1994 in
modeling of atmospheric events (episodes) has been the
MIR. Yet many consider very MOIR also useful because it is
based on an undesirable circumstance.