In the largest U.S. atmospheric chemistry field project in decades, researchers sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and other organizations are working to study tiny particles and gases in the air over the southeastern United States.
The study looks at the chemical reactions between human-related pollution and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by vegetation such as trees in forests. The project, called the Southeast Atmosphere Study, or SAS, runs through July 15, 2013.
It's part of an unprecedented campaign, say the scientists, to investigate the relationship between air chemistry and climate change.
Professor Allen Goldstein is a contributing researcher on this project.
Read the rest of the National Science Foundation press release.