Distribution of222Rn over the north Pacific: Implications for continental influences

The atmospheric distribution of²²²Rn over the north Pacific is simulated with a three-dimensional chemical tracer model using meteorological input from the NASA-GISS general circulation model (4°×5° resolution). Radon-222 (half-life 3.8 days) is a tracer of continental air. Model results are in good agreement with measurements from ships and aircraft. Strong Asian influence is found throughout the tropospheric column over the north Pacific in spring, reflecting a combination of frequent convection over the continent, strong westerly winds at altitude, and subsidence over the ocean. In summer, the upper troposphere over the north Pacific is heavily affected by deep convection over China; however, Asian influences at the surface are then at their yearly minimum. In winter, strong Asian influence is found near the surface but not at high altitudes. Transport of American air over the Pacific is important only at low latitudes. American sources account for 11% of total²²²Rn in the model at Midway, 30% at Mauna Loa and 59% at Oahu. Results for Hawaii indicate two seasonal peaks of American influence, one in summer and one in winter. The tropical western Pacific is particularly remote from continental influences year round.