Atmospheric Pollution Flashcards

Acid Rain Formation

Occurs when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from burning fossil fuels combine with water vapor in the atmosphere, forming sulfuric and nitric acids that fall back to Earth as rain.

Effects of Acid Rain

Environmental damage caused by the precipitation of acidic substances. It can harm aquatic life, forests, soil, and infrastructure.

Radon-222

A radioactive gas that comes from soil and rocks. Prolonged exposure can lead to lung cancer, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Asbestos

A mineral found in rocks and soil. Inhalation of its fibers can cause lung scarring, cancer, and mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other organs.

Anthropogenic Sources of Air Pollution

Human activities like burning fossil fuels and industrial processes that release pollutants into the air, contributing to air pollution and its harmful effects on the environment and human health.

Nonpoint Air Pollution

Pollution that comes from multiple sources and is not discharged from a specific point, such as vehicle emissions and dust from construction sites.

Point Air Pollution

Contaminants released from specific, identifiable sources, such as factories, power plants, and vehicles, contributing to localized pollution.

Natural Sources of Air Pollution

Volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and dust storms that release pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

Colorless, foul-smelling gas released from fossil fuel combustion, causing respiratory irritation and acid rain.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Tiny particles suspended in the air, originating from natural sources like dust and human activities such as burning fossil fuels. Contributes to respiratory complications.

Lead (Pb)

A toxic heavy metal commonly found in old paint, water pipes, and some consumer products. Can cause serious health issues, especially in children. Historically used in gasoline, causing lower IQ levels and bioaccumulation.

Ozone (O3)

A harmful gas created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. Often causes respiratory irritation.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Chemical compounds formed when nitrogen and oxygen react at high temperatures contributes to smog, acid rain, and respiratory issues.

Carbon Monoxide

A colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels. It can cause harmful health effects by reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Organic chemicals that easily evaporate into the air at room temperature, contributing to air pollution and potential health risks.

Clean Air Act

Legislation in the U.S. aimed at reducing air pollution by setting standards for air quality and regulating emissions from industries and vehicles.

Primary Pollution

Direct release of harmful substances into the environment, like emissions from vehicles or industrial processes, without undergoing any transformations.

Secondary Pollution

Pollution that occurs as a result of chemical reactions in the atmosphere, often formed from primary pollutants.

Vapor Recovery Nozzle

A fuel pump nozzle equipped with a vapor recovery system that captures gasoline vapors during refueling to reduce air pollution.

Catalytic Converter

A device in a vehicle that reduces harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful substances through chemical reactions.

Main Source of Air Pollution

Industries, vehicles, and agriculture are the primary contributors to air pollution, releasing pollutants like carbon monoxide and particulate matter into the atmosphere.

Dry Scrubber

Air pollution control device that removes pollutants from a gas stream without using liquid. It uses dry sorbent or dry reagent to capture pollutants.

Wet Scrubber

Air pollution control device that uses liquid to remove pollutants from a gas stream. Reduces particulate matter and gases before discharge.

Electrostatic Precipitator

A device that removes fine particles like dust and smoke from a gas stream using an electric charge to attract and collect them on charged plates or walls.

Photochemical Smog

NO + VOCs + sunlight → Ozone + PANS

Health effects: Respiratory issues, eye irritation, and exacerbation of existing conditions.

Temperature Inversion Formation

Occurs when warm air traps cooler air near the ground, leading to the accumulation of pollutants and reduced air quality.