Types of Pollution to Know for AP Environmental Science (AP)

Learn the types of Pollution

Air Pollution

The presence of harmful substances like gases and particulate matter in the atmosphere due to human activities.

Vehicle emissions

Pollutants released from cars, trucks, and buses.

Industrial emissions

Pollutants released by factories, including sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ).

Combustion of fossil fuels

The burning of coal, oil, and natural gas, especially in power plants.

Health impacts of air pollution

Includes chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and increased mortality rates.

Environmental impacts of air pollution

Contributes to global warming, acid rain, and ecosystem disruption.

Water Pollution

The contamination of water bodies due to pollutants.

Industrial discharge

Wastewater and chemicals released by factories into water bodies.

Agricultural runoff

Fertilizers and pesticides washed away into water systems.

Sewage

Untreated or partially treated human waste discharged into water sources.

Health impacts of water pollution

Includes waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery.

Soil Pollution

Degradation of soil quality due to harmful chemicals.

Pesticides and fertilizers

Chemicals used in agriculture that contaminate the soil and water.

Industrial waste

Toxic materials improperly disposed of from manufacturing processes.

Health impacts of soil pollution

Accumulation of toxic substances in food, impacting human health.

Noise Pollution

Harmful or excessive sound disrupting human health and natural environments.

Transportation noise

Sound generated from vehicles like cars and airplanes.

Health impacts of noise pollution

Includes hearing loss, stress, and sleep disturbances.

Light Pollution

Disruption of natural light patterns due to excessive artificial light.

Streetlights

Unshielded lights in urban areas contributing to light pollution.

Thermal Pollution

Elevated temperatures in water bodies due to industrial processes.

Sources of thermal pollution

Power plants that return heated water to rivers or lakes.

Health impacts of thermal pollution

Reduced oxygen levels in water harmful to aquatic life.

Radioactive Pollution

Release of radioactive materials into the environment.

Sources of radioactive pollution

Accidental leaks from nuclear power plants.

Health impacts of radioactive pollution

Radiation exposure can lead to cancer and genetic mutations.

Plastic Pollution

Accumulation of plastic products in the environment.

Sources of plastic pollution

Single-use plastics and microplastics in ecosystems.

Health impacts of plastic pollution

Microplastics can enter the food chain and affect human health.

Chemical Pollution

Release of harmful chemicals into air, water, and soil.

Sources of chemical pollution

Agricultural runoff and industrial chemicals.

Health impacts of chemical pollution

Long-term exposure can cause cancers and neurological disorders.

Agricultural Pollution

Pollution caused by the use of agricultural chemicals and livestock waste.

Livestock waste

Manure from animal farming contaminating soil and water.

Environmental impacts of agricultural pollution

Eutrophication of water bodies and soil degradation.

Mitigation strategies for pollution

Require regulation, sustainable practices, and pollution control innovations.