Atmospheric Pollution

Air Pollution

The introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or microorganisms into the atmosphere at concentrations high enough to harm plants, animals, and materials.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2)

A corrosive gas primarily from combustion of fuels like coal and oil; a respiratory irritant.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Pollutants emitted from motor vehicles and fossil fuel combustion, leading to respiratory issues and photochemical smog.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

A common emission from vehicle exhaust and combustion processes that can contribute to urban air pollution.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

A greenhouse gas released by burning fossil fuels, recently exceeding 400 parts per million in the atmosphere.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Solid or liquid particles suspended in air that can reduce visibility and affect health.

Photochemical Smog

A type of air pollution dominated by oxidants from sunlight acting on compounds; associated with urban areas.

Ozone (O3)

A secondary pollutant composed of three oxygen atoms, harmful at ground level.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic compounds that evaporate at typical atmospheric temperatures; a precursor to ozone formation.

Primary Pollutant

A polluting compound that comes directly from sources like smokestacks or exhaust pipes.

Secondary Pollutant

A primary pollutant that has transformed in the presence of sunlight, water, or other compounds.

Thermal Inversion

A weather phenomenon where a layer of warm air traps pollutants near the ground.

Acid Deposition

Occurs when nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides combine with atmospheric oxygen and water to form acids.

Scrubber

An air pollution control device that removes particulates and pollutants from industrial exhaust.

Indoor Air Pollution

Pollution that occurs inside buildings, with sources including CO, asbestos, radon, and VOCs.

Sick Building Syndrome

A situation where building occupants experience health issues linked to time spent in the building.

Clean Air Act

A United States federal law aimed at controlling air pollution on a national level.

National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)

EPA standards for air quality to protect public health and the environment.