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Hydrocarbon photochemistry in the upper atmosphere of JupiterThe hydrocarbon photochemistry in the upper atmosphere of Jupiter is investigated using a one-dimensional, photochemical-diffusive, and diurnally averaged model. The important chemical cycles and pathways among the major species are outlined and a standard model for the North Equatorial Belt region is examined in detail. It is found that several traditionally dominant chemical pathways among the C and C2 species are replaced in importance by cycles involving C-C4 species. The pressure and altitude profiles of mixing ratios for several observable hydrocarbon species are compared with available ultraviolet- and infrared-derived abundances. The results of sensitivity studies on the standard model with respect to variations in eddy diffusion profile, solar flux, atomic hydrogen influx, latitude, temperature, and important chemical reaction rates are presented. Measured and calculated airglow emissions of He at 584 angstroms and H at 1216 angstroms are also used to provide some constraints on the range of model parameters. The relevance of the model results to the upcoming Galileo mission is briefly discussed. The model is subject to considerable improvement; there is a great need for laboratory measurements of basic reaction rates and photodissociation quantum yields, even for such simple species as methylacetylene and allene. Until such laboratory measurements exist there will be considerable uncertainty in the understanding of the C3 and higher hydrocarbons in the atmospheres of the jovian planets.
Document ID
20040089804
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Gladstone, G. R.
(Southwest Research Institute San Antonio, Texas 78228-0510, United States)
Allen, M.
Yung, Y. L.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1996
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 119
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0019-1035
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-1509
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Number 52-20
NASA Program Exobiology
NASA Discipline Exobiology
Non-NASA Center

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