APES Unit 7

Based of Ms. Dills Notes

Air Pollutants

Substances released into the atmosphere that can cause harm to human health and the environment.

Primary Pollutants

Pollutants that are directly emitted into the air from sources such as burning fossil fuels.

Secondary Pollutants

Pollutants formed through chemical reactions in the atmosphere, such as ozone.

Photochemical Smog

A type of smog formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react with sunlight.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic chemicals that can evaporate at room temperature, contributing to air pollution.

Thermal Inversion

A weather phenomenon where cooler air traps pollutants near the ground.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

A greenhouse gas released through respiration and the burning of fossil fuels.

Indoor Air Pollutants

Airborne contaminants found indoors, such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and asbestos.

Acid Rain

Precipitation with a lower pH caused by nitrogen and sulfur oxides in the atmosphere.

Noise Pollution

Unwanted or excessive sound that disrupts life and can lead to health problems.

Clean Air Act

A regulatory framework in the U.S. aimed at controlling air pollution.

Nitrogen Oxides

Gases produced from fossil fuel combustion that contribute to smog and acid rain.

Catalytic Converters

Devices used in vehicles to reduce harmful emissions.

Scrubbers

Technologies that remove harmful substances from industrial emissions.

Radon

A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can infiltrate homes, leading to health risks.

Particulates

Tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air that can harm health when inhaled.