Nested and Adaptive Grids for Multiscale Air Quality Modeling

Our multiscale air quality modeling activities are reviewed. Two different techniques, static grid nesting and dynamic grid adaptions are discussed. The mass conservation and transportive properties of our grid nesting technique are shown in a linear advection problem. Results from an air quality application to the northeastern U.S. are also presented. The solution accuracy with the adaptive grid technique is compared to a uniform grid model, which requires comparable computing effort, for a rotation test. Finally, the potential uses of both techniques are discussed and our perspective for the future of air quality modeling is presented.