Atmospheric Science and Pollution

This set of flashcards covers key concepts in atmospheric science, air pollution, and related environmental factors.

Layers of the Atmosphere

Troposphere (lowest, weather and pollution), Stratosphere (ozone layer), Mesosphere, Thermosphere.

Composition of the Atmosphere

Major gases: Nitrogen (78%), Oxygen (21%), Argon (0.93%), Carbon Dioxide (0.04%).

Good Ozone vs. Bad Ozone

Good ozone: stratospheric, protects from UV; Bad ozone: ground-level, harmful to health.

Stratosphere as Global Sunscreen

The ozone layer absorbs and scatters harmful UV radiation, protecting life on Earth.

Outdoor and Indoor Air Pollutants

Outdoor: CO, NO2, SO2, PM, O3, VOCs; Indoor: CO, PM, VOCs, Radon. Health effects include respiratory issues and diseases.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Organic chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, contributing to ozone formation.

Primary Pollutants

Emitted directly into the atmosphere (e.g., CO, SO2, NOx, PM).

Secondary Pollutants

Formed through atmospheric chemical reactions (e.g., tropospheric ozone, secondary PM).

Clean Air Act (1963, amended 1990)

Regulates six criteria air pollutants: CO, NO2, SO2, PM, O3, Lead (Pb). Aims to protect public health.

Wet Scrubbers

Remove pollutants from exhaust gases using water, trapping particles in liquid.

Electrostatic Precipitators

Use electric charges to attract and capture particles from emissions.

Catalytic Converter

Converts harmful gases in car exhaust into less harmful substances through chemical reactions.

Photochemical Smog

Mixture of pollutants formed from NOx and VOCs in sunlight, often high ozone levels.

Temperature Inversion

Warm air traps cooler air underneath, preventing vertical mixing and raising pollution levels.

Acid Deposition

Occurs when SO2 and NOx react in the atmosphere to form acids. EPA defines it at pH < 5.6.

Most Dangerous Indoor Air Pollutants

CO, Radon, VOCs, and Asbestos. Sources include combustion appliances and building materials.

National Ambient Air Quality Standards

Set maximum allowable levels for outdoor air pollutants as part of the Clean Air Act.

Ozone Depletion

Caused by CFCs which release chlorine that destroys ozone in the stratosphere.

Noise Pollution

Unwanted sound from transportation, industry; health effects include hearing loss and cardiovascular issues.

Global Wind Patterns

Driven by uneven solar heating and the Coriolis effect affecting weather and climate.

Tilt of the Earth’s Axis

Causes seasonal changes in daylight and temperature across different latitudes.

Solar Radiation Distribution

Highest intensity of solar radiation at the equator, decreasing toward the poles.

Rain Shadow Effect

Occurs when moist air rises over mountains, causing precipitation on one side and dry conditions on the other.