AIR POLLUTION

 

 

Air pollution is the human introduction into the atmosphere of chemicals, particulate matter, or biological materials that cause harm or discomfort to humans or other living organisms, or damages the natural environment. As mentioned, there are a few kinds of major pollutants for air pollution:

 

§             Sulphur oxides (SO_x), especially sulphur dioxide (SO₂)

Produced by volcanoes or burning of sulphur-containing coal and fuel oil in various industrial processes. Since coal and petroleum often contain sulphur compounds, their combustion generates sulphur dioxide (SO₂). Further oxidation of SO₂ forms H₂SO₄, and thus causes acid rain. This is one of the causes for concern over the environmental impact of the use of these fuels as power sources. 

§             Nitrogen oxides (NO_x), especially nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)

Emitted from high temperature combustion. Has a characteristic sharp, biting odor. NO₂ is one of the most prominent air pollutants which can cause acid rain.

 

§             Carbon monoxide(CO)

Colourless and odourless. Non-irritating but very poisonous. A product by incomplete combustion of fuel such as natural gas, coal or wood. Vehicular exhaust is a major source of carbon monoxide.

§             Carbon dioxide (CO₂)

A greenhouse gas emitted from combustion.

§             Particulates/ particulate matter (PM) / fine particles

Tiny particles of solid or liquid suspended in a gas. Sources of particulate matter can be man made or natural. Produced by the burning of fossil fuels in vehicles, power plants and various industrial processes. Increased levels of fine particles in the air are linked to health hazards such as heart disease, altered lung function and lung cancer.

§             Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),

Harmful to the ozone layer. Emitted from products currently banned from use.