Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is a long-lived greenhouse gas that also contributes to stratospheric ozone destruction. Overall, the net flux of N₂O from the ocean represents about one third of the natural emissions of N₂O to the atmosphere each year. N2O is produced in the ocean via nitrification-linked processes during nutrient regeneration and as an intermediate of denitrification in oxygen-minimum zones (OMZs). In regions of hypoxia, both nitrification and denitrification can contribute to N₂O production, and the yields of N₂O from both processes increase. In addition to being emitted locally, N₂O produced in low oxygen waters can be transported long distances from where it is produced to where it is ultimately emitted to the atmosphere. Because N₂O isotopes are sensitive to production mechanism, they can be used to fingerprint sources and track transport of N₂O from OMZ regions to sites of subsequent emissions. Here, we present a prospectus on N₂O production, transport, and emissions from the Pacific Ocean, highlighting open questions from the perspective of a changing ocean.
 

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