Glossary of Terms

Algorithm:

The mathematics behind the a computer model.

Application:

The science behind the model-- background about the information in the model.

Architecture:

How the computer model was set up to model the problem.

Catalyst:

A chemical substance that will increase the speed at which a reaction occurs but not chemical output of the reaction.

Causual Loop System:

A diagram showing the components of an ongoing process.

Concentration:

The amount of a substance in a specified volume.

Free Radicals:

Extremely reactive substances that possess unpaired electrons.

Hydrocarbon:

Molecules that contain at least one carbon and hydrogen atom.

Kinetic:

Expresses that a certain particle has kinetic energy: it has both mass and velocity.

Oxidizing Agents:

Substances that take electrons from other atoms.

Photochemical Smog:

Exists when hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen occur together in the presence of sunlight.

Reducing Agents:

Substances that give electrons to other atoms.

Solar Radiation:

Emissions from the sun.

Tropospheric:

A layer of air extending about seven miles upwards from the earth's surface.