Characterization of Ozone Distributions in Pohang: Measurement Data during 2002~2006

Temporal trends and spatial distributions of ozone concentrations in Pohang were investigated using data measured at 4 air quality monitoring stations (i.e., Daedo, Jukdo, Jangheung, and Desong) during 2002-2006. The monthly mean ozone concentrations were highest during April and June and decreased during July and August, which follows the typical trend in the Northeast Asia region. The high springtime ozone concentration might have been strongly influenced by the enhanced photochemical ozone production of accumulated precursors during the winter under increased solar radiations. In July and August, ozone levels were decreased by frequent and severe precipitation that caused lower mean monthly solar radiation and efficient wash-out of ozone precursors. This suggests that precipitation is extremely beneficial in the aspect of ozone pollution control. High ozone concentrations exceeding 80ppb dominantly occurred in May and June during the late afternoon between 16:00~17:00. Ozone concentrations were higher in Jangheung and Daesong relative to Daedo and Jukdo, whereas total oxidants were higher in Jangheung and Daedo. In the suburban area of Daesong, ozone concentrations seem to be considerably higher than those in urban sites of Daedo and Jukdo due to lower ozone loss by NO titration with lower local NO level.