Distribution of total hydrocarbons in Jiddah atmosphere: Fid-Bau Portal

Distribution of total hydrocarbons in Jiddah atmosphere

Sabbak, Omar Ali

Abstract A comprehensive field study of atmospheric methane and reactive hydrocarbons was conducted in Jiddah, Saudi Arabia for the period of 1984 through 1987. The trends of methane and reactive hydrocarbons have been developed for five stations scattered around the city of Jiddah. Daily, monthly, and annual mean, maximum and mean maximum concentrations are discussed. The four-year average methane and reactive hydrocarbon concentrations were 0.07 μL/L and 0.23 μL/L respectively. The maximum value of 1.25 μL/L was recorded for methane once in the industrial area (station 105) in 1984, and once again in the downtown area (station 104) in 1985. Reactive hydrocarbons maximum value of 8.20 μL/L was recorded once in the downtown area (station 104) in 1985. Despite the annual increase in the number of cars, the annual mean was showing a continuous decrease. A decrease in methane and reactive hydrocarbons maximum and mean maximum concentrations from 1984 to 1987 was observed. Analysis of the data shows a lower mean than any international air quality standard. The statistical significance of the data and background information for air quality standards for the city are discussed.