Chapter 7: Atmospheric Pollution (copy)

Antarctica

________ has a nearly constant temperature inversion.

Air pollution

It occurs when harmful or excessive quantities of substances are introduced into Earths atmosphere

Parts per million (ppm)

The most common form of expressing air pollutants

Primary Pollutants

Emitted directly into the air

Examples of primary pollutants

CO, SO2, Particulate matter (PM)

Secondary Pollutants

Result from primary air pollutants reacting together and forming new pollutants

Examples of secondary pollutants

Ozone (O3), NO2, H2SO4

What are 3 main anthropogenic sources of gaseous air pollution?

Vehicle Emissions: Combustion engines emit pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons

Industrial Processes: Factories release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, Nitrogen oxides, and PM during production

Agricultural activities: Livestock farming and fertilizer application release pollutants like ammonia and methane into the air

Primary pollutants from coal combustion

• Sulfur Dioxide

• Nitrogen Oxide (NOx)

• Particulate Matter (PM)

• Carbon Monoxide (CO)

• Mercury (HG)

• VOCs

Primary pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust

• Nitrogen oxides (NOx)

• Carbon Monoxide (CO)

• Hydrocarbons (HC)

• Particulate matter (PM)

• Lead (Pb)

Point source air pollution

It occurs when the contaminant comes from an obvious source

Non-point source air pollution

It occurs when the contaminant comes from a source that is not easily identifiable or from a number of sources spread over a large, widespread area

Clean Air Act

identified 6 criteria air pollutants that the EPA is required to set acceptable limits for, monitor, and enforce 

Provisions of the Clean Air Act

• Sets national air quality standards

• Regulates emissions of hazardous Air pollutants

• Requires permits for major sources of air pollution

• Establishes regulations for vehicle emissions

How does Cap and trade relate to the clean air act?

Cap and trade, a market-based approach, allows regulated entities to trade emissions allowances. The Clean Air Act enables the implementation and regulation of such programs to reduce air pollution.

Criteria air pollutants

These are a set of eight air pollutants that cause smog, acid rain, and other health hazards and are typically emitted from many sources in the industry, mining, transportation, power generation, and agriculture

The Eight Criteria Air Pollutants

NOSCLP (Nose clip)

Nitrogen Oxides, Ozone, Sulfur Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Lead, and Particulate matter

Industrial smog

Trends to be sulfur-based and is also called gray smog

Carbon monoxide

It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly less dense than air and is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds

Carbon monoxide effects

Bonds to hemogoblin, thereby interfering with oxygen transport in the blood stream

Death with prolonged exposure at high concentrations

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, death

Sources of Carbon Monoxide

• Incomplete combustion of any kind

• Malfunctioning exhaust systems and poorly ventilated cooking fires

Lead

It is used in building construction, lead-acid batteries for vehicles, bullets and shot fishing weights, solder, and shields for radiation

Lead Effects

Impairs central nervous system, affects learning and concentration

Neurological damage, developmental issues, organ damage

Sources of lead

• Gasoline additive

• Oil and gasoline

• coal

• old paint

Anthropogenic

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

A generic term for nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, which are produced from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen gases in the air

Nitrogen oxide effects

Respiratory irritant, precursor ozone, leads to photochemical smog, creates nitric acid, over fertilizes land and water

• Soil acidification

• water pollution

• eutrophication of lakes and rivers

• harm to aquatic life

Respiratory issues, exacerbates asthma

Sources of nitrogen oxides

All combustion in the atmosphere including FF combustion, wood, and other biomass burning

Anthropogenic: Vehicle emissions, FF combustions

• Anthropogenic, Combustion

Nitrous oxide

It is a major air pollutant, with levels of N2O having increased by more than 15% since 1750

Ozone

It is an inorganic molecule with the chemical formula O3, and tropospheric (ground-level) ozone is a secondary air pollutant

Ozone Effects

Reduces lung function and exacerbates respiratory symptoms

Degrades plant surfaces

Damages materials such as rubber and plastic

• Cause asthma and bronchitis

• Harm lung function and irritate the respiratory system

• Result in heart attacks and other cardiopulmonary problems

• Suppress the immune system.

Sources of OZONE

Secondary pollutant formed by the combination of sunlight, water, oxygen, VOCS, and NOx

Anthropogenic sources: Vehicle emissions, industrial processes

Tropospheric ozone

It does not have strong global effects, but instead is more influential in its effects on smaller, more localized areas

Peroxyacyl Nitrates (PANs)

These are secondary pollutants

Sulfuric Dioxide

A colorless gas with a penetrating, choking odor that readily dissolves in water to form an acidic solution

Effects of Sulfur Dioxide

• Respiratory irritant, Can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory ailments

• Harm stomata and plant tissue

• In atmosphere - harmful to aquatic life

• Soil acidification

• water pollution

• damage to building and monuments

Respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems

Sources of sulfur dioxide

combustion of coal, oil, and gasoline

Anthropogenic: Industrial processes, Combustion of FFs, transportation

Anthropogenic, Combustion

Particulate matter (PM-2.5 PM2.10)

Sources: Combustion of coal, oil, diesel,

biofuels: agriculture, road construction

Suspended particulate matter (PMx)

It is microscopic solid or liquid matter suspended in Earths atmosphere

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Air pollutant

These are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure (easily evaporate) at ordinary room temperature

Sources of VOC

Evaporation of fuels, paints, incomplete combustion of fuels

• Anthropogenic

Effects of VOC

Precursor to OZONE formation

Eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea

Mercury (Hg)

Air pollutant

Sources: Coal, oil, mining

Effects: Impairs Central nervous system, bioaccumulates in the food chain

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Sources: Combustion of Fossil Fuels and clearing of land

Effects: Affects climate and alters ecosystems by increasing green house gas emissions

Hydrocarbons

Pollutant compounds that contain carbon, hydrogen bonds such as

• gasoline and other FF

• lighter fluid

• Dry cleaning fluid

• oil based plants

• perfumes

OZONE (O3) Photochemical Smog

Primary pollutant (O3)

• Anthropogenic sources: Vehicle emissions, industrial processes

• Secondly pollutants: Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN)

• Effects on human health: Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat; respiratory issues

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) Photochemical smog

Primary Pollutant: NO2

Anthropogenic sources: Vehicle emissions, fossil fuel combustion

Secondary pollutants: Ozone (O3), nitric acid (HNO3)

Effects on human health: Respiratory problems, lung damage, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)-

Primary pollutant (VOCs)

Anthropogenic sources: Vehicle emissions, industrial processes

Secondary pollutants: Ozone (O3), formaldehyde, acetaldehyde

Effects on human health: Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headache; liver and kidney damage

Photochemical smog (LA Smog, brown smog)

It is catalyzed by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, tends to be nitrogen-based,

Categorized by oxidants such as ozone

Effects of Photochemical smog on Human Health

• Irritation of respiratory system

• aggravation of asthma and other respiratory diseases

• increased risk of cardiovascular diseases

Three ways to reduce Photochemical smog

• Implement stricter standards for vehicles and industries

• encourage alternate transportation methods

• promote adoption of cleaner technologies and renewable energy sources

Formation of Photochemical smog

Picture

Sulfurous smog (London smog, gray smog, industrial smog)

smog dominated by sulfur dioxide, sulfate compounds, and Particulate matter

Natural formation and destruction of ozone (ABSENCE OF VOCs)

• in the absence of VOCs Ozone will form during the daylight hours

• After sunset, the ozone will break down

Formation of photochemical smog (VOCs Present)

In the presence of VOCs, Ozone will form during the daylight hours. The VOCs combine with nitrogen oxides to form photochemical oxidants, which reduce the amount of ozone that will break down later and contribute to prolonged period of photochemical smog

How ground level ozone forms

Ground-level ozone forms through a chemical reaction involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight, warm temperatures, and still air conditions.

• The main product of this reaction is ozone (O3)

What accelerates the formation of ground level ozone

vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and fossil fuel combustion are primary sources that accelerate the formation of ground-level ozone.

Measures to Reduce Formation ground level ozone

• stricter emission standards for vehicles and industries

• Cleaner technologies

• renewable energy sources

• alternative transportation methods

Ground level ozone effects on human health

• irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat,

• respiratory problems such as coughing and wheezing

• aggravation of asthma and other respiratory diseases

• increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Thermal inversions

These occur when air temperature rises with height instead of falling

two things that can be done to help mitigate the effects of thermal inversions

1. Reducing Emissions: Implementing measures to reduce emissions of air pollutants from industrial sources, vehicles, and other anthropogenic activities can help minimize the formation of pollutants trapped during thermal inversions.

2. Urban Planning: Implementing urban planning strategies such as increasing green spaces, reducing the concentration of buildings, and promoting sustainable transportation options can help disperse pollutants and alleviate the impacts of thermal inversions.

Human Health Effects of Thermal Inversions

1. Respiratory Problems: Thermal inversions can lead to the accumulation of pollutants near ground level, exacerbating respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies due to increased exposure to harmful air pollutants.

2. Cardiovascular Issues: Prolonged exposure to pollutants trapped during thermal inversions can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

"Sick building" syndrome (SBS)

It is a term used to describe a combination of ailments associated with an individuals place of work or residence

Asbestos

It is inexpensive, durable, and flexible and naturally acts as an insulating and fireproofing agent

Carbon monoxide poisoning

It is the most common type of fatal indoor air poisoning in many countries because it easily combines with hemoglobin to block the bloods oxygen-carrying capacity

Formaldehyde

It is an organic chemical that is prevalent in the indoor environment and is a carcinogen that is linked to lung cancer

Sources: Anthropogenic

Health issues: Eye, nose, and throat irritation, respiratory issues

Radon-222

It is an invisible radioactive gas that results from the radioactive decay of radium, which can be found in rock formations beneath buildings

Source: Natural

Lung cancer, respiratory issues

Two ways to prevent radon-222 from entering homes are

1. Sealing foundation cracks and openings in walls or floors.

2. Installing a radon mitigation system, such as a vent pipe and fan system.

Which areas of the world have the most problems with air pollution?

• densely populated urban areas and regions with high levels of industrial activity.

• Conversely, regions with the most outdoor air pollution issues often include urban centers with heavy traffic, industrial activity, and geographical features that trap pollutants, such as valleys or basins.

Cigarette smoke

It contains almost 5,000 chemical compounds, including 60 known carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals), one of which is dioxin

Anthropogenic

Respiratory issues, cancer, heart disease

Wet and Dry Scrubbers

pollution control devices used to remove pollutants from industrial exhaust gases. Wet Scrubbers Uses liquid to trap pollutants, while dry scrubbers use solid material or chemicals for absorption or adsorption.

Targeted Pollutant: SO2, PM

Source of Pollutant: Industrial emissions

Practice type: Regulatory

Boghouse filters

wastewater treatment systems that use layers of media to filter and treat sewage through biological and physical processes, improving water quality.

Targeted pollutant: PM

Source of pollutant: industrial emissions

Practice type: regulatory

Fluidized bed combustion

combustion technology where solid particles are suspended and heated in a fluidized state, enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions in processes like power generation and waste incineration.

Targeted pollutant: SO2, NOx

Source of pollutant: power plants, industrial boilers

Practice type: Conservation

Electrostatic precipitators

emission control devices that use electrostatic forces to remove particles and pollutants from exhaust gases in industries such as power plants and steel mills.

Targeted pollutant: PM

Source of pollutant: Power plants, industrial boilers

Practice type: Regulatory

Catalytic converter

Reduction Method

It is an exhaust emission control device that converts toxic chemicals in the exhaust of an internal-combustion engine into less harmful substances

Practice type: regulatory

Target pollutant: Nix, CO, HC

Source of pollutant: Automobile emissions

Vapor Recovery Nozzle

Reduction method Device designed to capture and contain gasoline vapors during refueling, reducing emissions and environmental impact.

Target pollutant: VOCs

Source of Pollutant: Automobile Emissions

Practice type: Regulatory

Catalyst

It stimulates a chemical reaction in which by-products of combustion are converted to less toxic substances by way of catalyzed chemical reactions

Acid deposition

It occurs when atmospheric chemical processes transform sulfur and nitrogen compounds and other substances into wet or dry deposits on Earth

Dry Deposition

In dry areas, acidic chemicals in the air may become dust or smoke and stick to the ground, buildings, homes, cars, and trees, which rainstorms wash away, increasing acidic runoff

Wet Deposition

Acid rain, fog, and snow

Acid rain

It causes acidification of lakes and streams

Primary pollutants: Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Anthropogenic sources: Industrial emissions, transportation, combustion

Secondary Pollutant(s): Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4), Nitric Acid (HNO3)

Most Affected Areas: North America, Europe, Asia

Effects on Human Health/Ecosystems: Respiratory issues, soil acidification, aquatic ecosystem damage

Three ways to reduce acid rain formation

1. Implementing stricter emissions regulations for industrial and transportation sectors.

2. Promoting the use of cleaner energy sources such as renewable energy and natural gas.

3. Installing pollution control technologies like scrubbers in industrial facilities.

Effects of acid rain

• Soil: Acidification leading to nutrient depletion and decreased plant growth.

• Water: Acidification of lakes, rivers, and streams, harming aquatic life and disrupting ecosystems.

• Plants: Damage to leaves and needles, reduced photosynthesis, and inhibited growth.

• Outdoor structures: Corrosion and deterioration of buildings, monuments, and infrastructure.

Acid Rain Formation

picture

Acid shock

Caused by rapid melting of snow pack with dry acidic particles, raises lake and stream acid concentrations five to ten times higher than acidic rainfall

Urban heat islands

It occur in metropolitan areas that are significantly warmer than their surroundings

Street Canyon

A place where the street is flanked by buildings on both sides, creating a canyon-like environment

Noise pollution

It is an unwanted human-created sound that disrupts the environment

• Transportation

• Industrial activities

• Human actives (recreational, events, etc)

• Urban development (Roads & bridges)

Ecological effects of Noise pollution on animals

• Behavioral changes: disruption of natural behaviors; feeding, mating, and communication

• Habitat displacement: Drive animals away from their habitats, leading to a loss of territory and resources

• Stress and health issues:

Sensory hearing loss

it is caused by damage to the inner ear and is the most common form associated with noise pollution.

sulfur dioxide

Acid deposition due to ______ begins with sulfur dioxide being introduced into the atmosphere by burning coal and oil, smelting metals, organic decay, and ocean spray.

6 A.M.–9 A.M.

As people drive to work, concentrations of nitrogen oxides and VOCs increase

9 A.M.–11 A.M.

As traffic begins to decrease, nitrogen oxides and VOCs begin to react, forming nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

11 P.M.–4 P.M.

As the sunlight becomes more intense, nitrogen dioxide is broken down and the concentration of ozone (O3) increases:

4 P.M.–Sunset

As the sun goes down, the production of ozone is halted.

three way

Most present-day vehicles that run on gasoline are fitted with a “______” converter, since it converts the three main pollutants:

Carbon cycle

1. Photosynthesis: Naturally occurring process where plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and convert it into organic compounds, releasing oxygen (O2) as a byproduct.

2. Cellular Respiration: Both naturally occurring and anthropogenic, where organisms break down organic compounds to release energy, producing CO2 as a byproduct.

3. Decomposition: Naturally occurring process where dead organisms and organic matter decay, releasing CO2 back into the atmosphere.

4. Combustion: Anthropogenic process involving the burning of fossil fuels, biomass, and other organic materials, releasing CO2 into the atmosphere.

5. Volcanism: Naturally occurring process where volcanoes release CO2 and other gases during eruptions.

Three sources of naturally occurring particulate matter include volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and dust storms.