A CIESE Realtime Data Project

Weathers Role - Air Pollution: What's the Solution?

Weather's Role

 --> Do weather conditions affect the formation of ground level ozone?

In this activity, you will collect and analyze data, make comparisons and determinations about ozone levels. You will need a computer with internet access and a copy of the Student Worksheet and Excel or graph paper.

PART 1: Gather the Data   

  1. Take out your copy, or access the Air Quality Guide for Ozone in another browser window (CTR+N) or tab (CTRL+T).
  2. From the list below, click on the link of the city closest to your location. Locate the city on the map and watch the animation several times.
    Boston, MA Trenton, NJ Charlotte, NC
    St. Louis, MO Houston, TX Sacramento, CA
     
  3. Determine the AQI Color of the city for every hour listed and enter the data into the table on your Student Worksheet. (Hit the escape key to stop the animation at the specified time).
  4. Write in the corresponding Air Quality condition (Good, Moderate, etc.) and Maximum AQI value (50, 100, 150, etc.). This information can be found in the Air Quality Guide for Ozone.
  5. To determine the AQI Average value, find the average between the two numbers of the AQI range.
    • Example: Green has a range of 0 50, with an average of 25.
    Date & Location
    Time AQI Color Air Quality Condition Max. AQI Value AQI Ave. Value Temp. (F) Wind Speed (mph)
    ex. 8:00 Green Good 50 25 80 F 8.4 mph
    10:00            
    12:00            
     
  6. In another browser window (CTR+N) or tab (CTRL+T), or another computer, obtain the weather data for the city selected above:
    Boston, MA Trenton, NJ Charlotte, NC
    St. Louis, MO Houston, TX Sacramento, CA
     
  7. Determine and enter the Temperature (F) and Wind Speed (mph) data for every hour listed in your table.
  8. Make the following three bar graphs using the data in your table. Ask your teacher for assistance if you are unsure how to make the graphs, or click here for examples:
    1. Ozone v. Time
    2. Temperature v. Time
    3. Wind Speed v. Time

PART 2: Analyze the Data

  • After you have completed the graphs, use the data in the table and the graphs to answer the questions on the Student Worksheet.
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