Measurement of Atomic Oxygen in the Mesosphere

The oxidation rates of silver films by atomic oxygen and ozone have been examined and compared. The conductivities of the silver were measured as a function of the oxidation state. Several factors make the results of these measurements appear complex, and calibrations are necessary for atmospheric use. The apparent autocatalytic nature of the reaction and resistance coasting are examined in terms of a plausible mechanism. The increase in mass is amenable to direct correlation and confirms an initial rate law which is first order in the oxidation component. It was concluded that silver films are good detectors for atomic oxygen, and that ozone would not interfere with this measurement above an altitude of 38 km.