A numerical model of acidification of raindrops by oxidation of SO2

Abstract

A numerical model for the washout of sulphur dioxide from the atmosphere by rain has been developed by incorporating mass transfer of SO2 into well-mixed crops. The absorption of SO2 by water droplets is a complex mechanism involving the transport to the air-water interface. The washout of sulphur dioxide from the atmosphere is a phenomenon which is contributed to the production of acid rain and at the same time helps in cleaning the atmosphere. The mathematical model presented in this paper describes that the pollutants undergo chemical reaction in gas-phase and liquid-phase. The variation of the size of raindrops with height has also been incorporated. The model is used to simulate acid formation under different atmospheric conditions.A numerical model for the washout of sulphur dioxide from the atmosphere by rain has been developed by incorporating mass transfer of SO2 into well-mixed drops. The absorption of SO2 by water droplets is a complex mechanism involving the transport to the air-water interface. The washout of sulphur dioxide from the atmosphere is a phenomenon which is contributed to the production of acid rain and at the same time helps in cleaning the atmosphere. The mathematical model presented in this paper describes that the pollutants undergo chemical reaction in gas-phase and liquid-phase. The variation of the size of raindrops with heights has also been incorporated. The model is used to simulate acid formation under different atmospheric conditions.