A numerical model for the simulation of SO2 concentrations in the Kyongin region, Korea

A method for solving the non-reactive tracer continuity equation using a ti me splitting technique and a Galerkin technique with chapeau functions as f inite elements for the horizontal advection has been developed and employed to simulate SO2 concentrations in the Kyongin region in Korea for a synopt ic case of high pollution potential days in autumn with the relatively stro ng southwesterly geostrophic wind at the 850 hPa pressure level. The paired comparisons between hourly observed and the simulated SO2 concentrations a re made to test the model performance. The result indicates that the presen t model simulates quite well horizontal distribution patterns of SO2 concen tration. However, the simulated concentrations depend largely on the emissi on rate, suggesting the importance of accurate source identification for th e accurate simulation of the concentration field. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.