This Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI) project involves laboratory investigations of the kinetics and mechanisms reactions between peroxy radicals (hydroperoxy, HO2, and methyl peroxy, CH3O2) and halogen oxide radicals (chlorine monoxide, ClO, and bromine monoxide, BrO). The experiments will examine the reactions individually over a range of atmospherically relevant temperatures and pressures using a long-path absorption cell and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer operating in the step-scan mode. This combination of tools allows observation of reactants and products with high time resolution.
This work will provide significant benefits to the atmospheric chemistry community by providing reliable and detailed information on these reactions. In addition, the project will provide significant opportunities for undergraduate students, particularly those from underrepresented groups, to participate in this valuable research program while building infrastructure for research at an undergraduate institution.