Changes in reactive stratospheric gases due to a change in Brewer-Dobson circulation: Results from a simple model

Abstract

Amounts of source gases with stratospheric sinks (CFCs, N 2O, CH 4) are affected by changes in Brewer-Dobson circulation. Source gases and their degradation products are important for atmospheric chemistry and climate. With a simple model, we examine how amounts and lifetimes of source gases and products depend on speed of the circulation. Transient results differ from steady-state and stratospheric results differ from those for stratosphere plus troposphere. Increases in speed increase the stratospheric burden of source gases, but reduce products and reduce total burdens and lifetimes of source gases. © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society.