Overview of Air Pollution and its Impacts

These flashcards cover key concepts related to air pollution, its sources, impacts on health and the environment, as well as the atmospheric conditions surrounding it.

Atmosphere

A layer or layers of gases that envelope a planet, held in place by the planet's gravity.

Air Pollution

Contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the atmosphere.

Greenhouse Gases (GHG)

Gases, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, that are essential for maintaining Earth's temperature by trapping heat.

Primary Pollutants

Pollutants that are emitted directly from identifiable sources.

Secondary Pollutants

Pollutants that are produced in the air by reactions among primary pollutants.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Particles in the air that consist of solids and/or liquid materials, which can impact human health.

Natural Sources of Air Pollution

Pollutants produced from natural phenomena, such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires.

Anthropogenic Sources

Pollution sources resulting from human activities, including industrial and transportation emissions.

Health Effects of Air Pollution

Range from acute symptoms like coughing and respiratory infections to chronic diseases and mortality.

Climate Change

Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions linked to increased greenhouse gases.