Introduction to Atmospheric Pollution

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to atmospheric pollution, its layers, pollutants, health impacts, and regulatory measures.

What are the five distinct layers of the atmosphere characterized by?

They are characterized mainly by temperature.

Where do airplanes fly and weather occur in the atmosphere?

In the Troposphere.

What is the role of ozone (O3) in the Stratosphere?

It protects us from UV-B and UV-C radiation.

Which atmospheric layer is the coldest and where most meteorites burn up?

The Mesosphere.

What percentage of Earth's atmosphere is Argon?

0.9%.

What is the 'Tragedy of the Commons' in terms of the atmosphere?

Small emissions across the globe add up to create a shared pollution.

What are some health issues caused by air pollution?

Respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

What is the major environmental risk to health attributed to air pollution?

Around 7 million deaths each year.

What are the two types of pollutants?

Primary Pollutants and Secondary Pollutants.

What does the Clean Air Act of 1970 require?

It requires the EPA to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 6 criteria pollutants.

What is the most significant contributor to atmospheric pollution?

Combustion of fossil fuels.

What is Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and what are its natural and anthropogenic sources?

Natural sources include volcanoes and lightning; anthropogenic sources include combustion of fossil fuels.

What is the difference between 'good' ozone and 'bad' ozone?

Good ozone is stratospheric, while bad ozone is tropospheric and a secondary pollutant.

What impact does Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) have on the atmosphere?

It transforms into sulfuric acid, contributing to acid rain.

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO) and its main source?

It is a pollutant that occurs from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels.

Why was lead banned from gasoline?

It was found to have dangerous effects on human health.

In the Flint, Michigan water crisis, what was the primary issue?

Old piping contaminated the water with lead.

What are the impacts of Particulate Matter (PM) on health?

It can cause respiratory irritation and diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What positive outcome resulted from the Clean Air Act?

The levels of all 6 criteria pollutants have been decreasing.