THE DECAY OVER LONG DISTANCES OF ROCKET-RELEASED LITHIUM DUE TO DIFFUSION, WINDS, AND CHEMICAL REACTIONS

Abstract

An enhancement of atmospheric lithium was observed over Saskatoon during March, 1965, following a rocket release of lithium at Churchill. A diffusion coefficient, an average wind velocity, and upper limits on certain lithium chemical reactions are calculated from the observations after certain assumptions are made. The horizontal diffusion coefficient, applicable over distances of 1 000 kilometers and times of weeks, is larger than diffusion coefficients over shorter distances and times. The vertical diffusion coefficient between 60 and 80 kilometers in height appears to be much lower than the large horizontal coefficients.