Instantaneous photochemical rates in the global stratosphere

Starting with the average actual distribution of ozone (Dütsch [15]) and temperature in the stratosphere, we have calculated the solar intensity as a function of wavelength and the instantaneous rates (molecules cm^–3 sec^–1) for each Chapman reaction and for each of several reactions of the oxides of nitrogen. The calculation is similar to that ofBrewer andWilson [5]. These reaction rates were calculated independently in each volume element in spherical polar coordinates defined by R=1 km from zero to 50, =5° latitude, and ø=15° longitude (thus including day and night conditions). Calculations were made for two times: summer-winter (January 15) and spring-fall (March 22). As input data we take observed solar intensities (Ackerman [1]) and observed, critically evaluated. constants for elementary chemical and photochemical reactions; no adjustable parameters are employed. (These are not photochemical equilibrium calculations.) According to the Chapman model, the instantaneous, integrated, world-wide rate of formation of ozone from sunlight is about five times faster than the rate of ozone destruction, and locally (lower tropical stratosphere) the rate of ozone formation exceeds the rate of destruction by a factors as great as 1000. The global rates of increase of ozone are more than 50 times faster thanBrewer andWilson's [5] estimate of the average annual transfer rate of ozone to the troposphere. The rate constants of the Chapman reactions are believed to be well-enough known that it is highly improbable that these discrepancies are, due to erroneous rate constants. It is concluded that something else besides neutral oxygen species is very important in stratospheric ozone photochemistry. The inclusion of a uniform concentration of the oxides of nitrogen (NO_x as, NO and NO₂) averaging 6.6×10^–9 mole fraction gives a balance between global ozone formation and destruction rates. The inclusion of a uniform mole fraction of NO_x at 28×10^–9 also gives a global balance. These calculations support the hypethesis (Crutzen [10],Johnston [24]) that the oxides of nitrogen are the most important factor in the global, natural ozone balance. Several authors have recently evaluated the natural source strength of NO_x in the stratosphere; the projected fleets of supersonic transports would constitute an artificial source of NO_x about equal to the natural value, thus promising more or less to double an active natural stratospheric ingredient.     

Lead and strontium isotopes in rocks of the Absaroka volcanic field,Wyoming

The Absaroka volcanic field is comprised of predominant andesitic volcaniclastic rocks and less abundant potassium-rich mafic lavas (shoshonites and absarokites). Strontium and lead isotopic variations preclude a simple derivation from an isotopically uniform source: Sr⁸⁷/Sr⁸⁶, 0.7042 to 0.7090; Pb²⁰⁶/Pb²⁰⁴, 16.31 to 17.30; Pb²⁰⁸/Pb²⁰⁴, 36.82 to 37.64. We postulate that these rocks were derived from a lower crust or upper mantle which underwent a preferential loss of uranium relative to lead approximately 2800±200 m.y. ago. Variations in lead and strontium isotopic compositions are thought to reflect small inhomogeneities in U/Pb and Rb/Sr ratios in the source.Publication authorized by the Director, U.S. Geological Survey.     

Dendroclimatology and dendroecology

Dendrochronology is the science of dating annual growth layers (rings) in woody plants. Two related subdisciplines are dendroclimatology and dendroecology. The former uses the information in dated rings to study problems of present and past climates, while the latter deals with changes in the local environment rather than regional climate.     

Effects of metals on sea urchin development: A rapid bioassay

Embryos of sea urchins show a differential response to Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni and Zn. The responses are also stage-specific. The different morphological effects of various metals reflect the differentiation of the early embryonic cells. Since fertilization can be inhibited in the presence of metals, especially Cu, the ability of the gametes to undergo fertilization can then be used as a biological indicator for a rapid assay, 10–20 min., of marine pollutants. Since embryo-genesis up to plutei stage requires only 20 h, this duration is also short compared to other systems utilizing embryonic or larval forms.     

Reducing Drift and Bias of a Global Ocean Model by Frequency-Dependent Nudging

Frequency-dependent nudging is applied to a coarse resolution (nominal 1°) global ocean model to suppress its drift and bias, and the impact of the nudging on the skill of the model is assessed. The nudging is applied to temperature and salinity in frequency bands centred on 0 and 1 cycles per year. As expected, the nudging significantly reduces the biases in the long-term mean and annual cycle of temperature, salinity, and sea level. By comparing the simulated (i) sea surface temperature with operational analyses based on observations, (ii) vertical profiles of temperature and salinity with observations made by Argo floats, and (iii) sea level with altimeter observations, it is shown that the skill of the model in simulating variability about the annual cycle is also improved. The potential benefit of applying frequency-dependent nudging to the ocean component of a coupled atmosphere–ocean model is discussed.     

Subdivision of the Precambrian — A brief review and a report on recent decisions by the subcommission on Precambrian Stratigraphy

In contrast to the Phanerozoic, for which there exists an internationally accepted, detailed time scale, the Precambrian, representing more than four-fifths of all recorded Earth history, is completely without an accepted scheme for time classification. Inspection of the many published proposals for subdivision of the Precambrian reveals much diversity in underlying concept, means of definition, and nomenclature. Most schemes are based on orogenic or magmatic-tectonic cycles, but others are keyed in principle to sedimentary sequences, to total Earth history, or to combinations of various concepts. Several are reviewed as examples. Considered in terms of basic criteria, few if any of the published proposals are entirely satisfactory, and none appears a likely candidate for international acceptance.The Subcommission on Precambrian Stratigraphy of the International Union of Geological Sciences, at its meeting in Cape Town, 11.7.1977–15.7.1977, has taken the initial step toward formulation of a complete time scale by recommending acceptance of a division of the Precambrian into Proterozoic and Archean. These time units have the status of eons, equivalent to the Phanerozoic, though of much greater duration. The age of the time boundary between Proterozoic and Archean is defined as 2500 Ma.