Abstract:
This is a study in three phases concerning the transportation,
concentration and distribution of suspended
particulate matter and its relationship to the atmospheric
parameters affecting Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Compared to other
cities of its size in the nation, Tuscaloosa rated in the
67th percentile of suspended particulate concentration with
a yearly average of 97.93 ug/m^3 . Intracity variations in
suspended particulates, benzene soluble organics, nitrate
and sulfate concentrations were found, as well as monthly
variations due to topography, wind direction, increases in
precipitation and a combination of other atmospheric parameters.
Direct relationships were discovered between diurnal
temperature ranges, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure,
wind direction and suspended particulate matter.
The hypothesis of possible modification of climate by
air pollution (suspended particulate matter) is presented
with facts concerning higher temperatures and increased rainfall
in locations of high suspended particulate concentrations.
