Review Packet

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

A colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of organic matter and poorly functioning exhaust systems.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

A gas produced by the combustion of fossil fuels that affects climate by increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Gases produced by combustion processes, including fossil fuels, that contribute to ozone formation and respiratory irritation.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

A gas produced from the combustion of fuels containing sulfur; can lead to acid rain and respiratory issues.

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)

Tiny particles from combustion, agriculture, and construction that can impair lung and cardiovascular functions.

Ozone (O3)

A secondary pollutant formed from sunlight, oxygen, VOCs, and NOx that damages plant surfaces and human health.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic chemicals released from natural sources and human activities that can cause respiratory issues and contribute to ozone formation.

Radon-222 (Rn)

A radioactive gas from the decay of uranium, which can enter homes and is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

Mold

Fungi that develop in damp areas, releasing spores into the air and causing respiratory problems.

Lead

A heavy metal found in old paint and pipes that can damage children's central nervous systems.

Eutrophication

The over-enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen.

Biodegradable Wastes

Animal wastes and plant debris that contribute to oxygen-demanding wastes in aquatic environments.

Organic Chemicals

Toxic substances that can disrupt immune and endocrine systems, found in oil, gasoline, pesticides, and solvents.

Inorganic Chemicals

Toxic substances such as acids and metal compounds that contaminate aquatic systems.

Thermal Pollution

Heat pollution from industrial and power plant operations that can make species vulnerable to disease.

Hydropower

Electricity generated by the kinetic energy of moving water, with minimal air pollutants released.

Geothermal Energy

Energy generated from the heat of the Earth, resulting in low emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Wind Energy

Electric power obtained from the kinetic energy of wind without releasing greenhouse gases.

Biomass/Biofuels

Renewable energy sources from organic materials that can reduce reliance on fossil fuels.