All Flashcards
Why is burning coal a major source of air pollution?
Releases CO2, SO2, mercury, lead, and particulates.
Why is PM2.5 particularly dangerous?
It can get deep into the lungs.
How is ozone formed?
Formed from NOx and VOCs in sunlight.
What is the main source of Nitric Oxide (NO)?
Burning fossil fuels.
What is the main source of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)?
Burning sulfur-containing fuels (like coal).
What is the main source of Ammonia (NH3)?
From organic matter breakdown and fertilizers.
What is the effect of Carbon Monoxide (CO) on health?
Headaches, dizziness, death.
What is the effect of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) on health?
Respiratory issues.
What is the effect of Ozone (O3) on health?
Respiratory issues.
What is the effect of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) on the environment?
Contributes to PM and acid rain.
How is sulfuric acid formed?
SO3 reacts with water.
How is nitric acid formed?
NO2 reacts with water.
Describe the process of ozone formation.
NOx and VOCs react in the presence of sunlight.
How is ammonium formed?
Ammonia reacts with acids.
Outline the process of acid rain formation.
SO2 and NOx are released, react with water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids, which then fall as acid rain.
Describe the formation of secondary particulate matter.
Primary pollutants undergo chemical reactions in the atmosphere to form particulate matter.
What is the main source of air pollution?
Burning of coal and fossil fuels.
Why is PM2.5 particularly dangerous?
It can get deep into the lungs.
How is ozone formed?
From NOx and VOCs in sunlight.
What contributes to acid rain?
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
What are the health effects of carbon monoxide?
Headaches, dizziness, death.
What is the role of sunlight in forming secondary pollutants?
Provides energy for reactions between primary pollutants.
How does ammonia contribute to air pollution?
Contributes to particulate matter formation.
What is the difference between PM10 and PM2.5?
PM2.5 is smaller and more dangerous as it penetrates deeper into the lungs.
What are some sources of VOCs?
Industrial processes, paints, etc.
What is the effect of air pollution on air quality?
Air quality is affected by the concentration of gasses and particulates.