Air Pollution

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts related to air pollution, pollutants, their sources, health effects, and pollution control measures.

What are the six major criteria pollutants designated by the U.S. Clean Air Act?

Sulfur Dioxide, Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide, Ozone, Particulate Matter, Lead.

What is the primary cause of acid rain in the United States?

The release of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.

What are primary pollutants?

Pollutants released directly from their source.

What are secondary pollutants?

Pollutants that are converted to a hazardous form after entering the air and mixing with other air components.

What are some natural sources of air pollution?

Volcanoes, sea spray, and vegetation.

What is the main health effect of Carbon Monoxide (CO)?

It interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, leading to symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.

What is the effect of ozone in the stratosphere?

It absorbs incoming UV radiation, protecting the biosphere.

What is particulate matter?

Solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the atmosphere.

What is acid precipitation?

The deposition of wet acidic solutions or dry acidic particles from the air.

What does a catalytic converter do?

It reduces engine emissions by catalyzing the conversion of NOx and CO to nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

Name a method to control particulate emissions.

Electrostatic precipitation or bag filtration.

What are the health effects of PM2.5 particulates?

Linked with heart attack, asthma, lung cancer, and abnormal fetal development.

What pollution control measure was taken regarding lead in fuel?

Banning lead from gasoline was a successful pollution control measure.

What is industrial smog?

A mixture created by the burning of coal, made primarily of fly ash, soot, and SO2.

How do temperature inversions affect air pollution?

They trap pollutants near the ground, preventing their dispersal.

What factors contribute to indoor air pollution?

Chemicals in carpeting and paints, as well as pollutants like formaldehyde, radon, and carbon monoxide.