Atmospheric Pollution

Flashcards covering key concepts of atmospheric pollution, including definitions and effects.

Air Pollution

Caused by anything added into the atmosphere that has a negative effect, especially to living things.

Natural vs. Manmade Sources

Natural sources include dust, pollen, pollutants from wildfires and volcanic eruptions; Manmade sources include power plants and motor vehicle emissions.

Primary Air Pollutants

Harmful substances emitted directly into the air, such as CO, SO2, NOx, VOCs.

Secondary Air Pollutants

Pollutants that form through the reaction of primary pollutants with other substances in the air.

Acid Rain

Acidic rainfall caused by reactions of NOx and SO2 with water and sunlight, creating nitric and sulfuric acids.

Photochemical Smog

A type of air pollution dominated by ozone, formed from nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.

Thermal Inversion

A natural temperature gradient reversal that traps pollutants close to the Earth's surface.

Indoor Air Pollution

Adverse effects on indoor air quality, often more dangerous than outdoor pollution, particularly in terms of respiratory issues.

VOCs

Volatile organic compounds that can evaporate and affect air quality, often found in household products and carpets.

Cap & Trade Program

A system in which maximum allowable emissions are set for industries, allowing businesses to buy and sell emissions credits.

Catalytic Converter

A device used in vehicles that converts pollutants into less harmful emissions, required since the Clean Air Act of 1975.

Scrubber

A device used to remove pollutants from industrial exhaust streams by separating and removing particles.

Radon

A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in buildings, posing severe health risks.

Asbestos

A fibrous mineral that can cause cancer when inhaled, often found in older buildings.

Carbon Monoxide

A colorless, odorless gas that can cause asphyxiation and is often produced indoors by improperly vented appliances.

Ozone (O3)

A secondary pollutant formed from the reaction of sunlight with pollutants, which can have harmful effects on health and the environment.