Air-sea gas exchange
Understanding of air-sea gas exchange has advanced rapidly over
the past decade. However, there are still major knowledge gaps and
scientists remain unable to define and determine
adequately the behaviour of important ecological systems or
processes. These gases can alter the chemistry of the atmosphere,
act as greenhouse gases or as nuclei for the formation of clouds.
For some gases, such as CO2, this gap in knowledge
constitutes the dominating uncertainty in how the ocean will
respond to global change.
PML has a 30 year track record in conducting research into a
wide range of climatically active gases, their function and role
within the Earth system. Over this time PML scientists have made
many discoveries, such as the production of dimethyl sulphide (DMS)
by marine viruses, and have developed a variety of techniques and
technologies to monitor gas exchange.
Key research areas