Atmospheric Chemistry

What is the composition of the atmosphere in terms of nitrogen, oxygen, and argon?

78.08% nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen, and 0.93% argon.

Define Greenhouse Gases.

Gases like CO2, CH4, N2O, and O3 contributing to warming.

What is the troposphere?

The lowest layer of the atmosphere where weather occurs.

What is the role of the stratosphere?

Contains the ozone layer which absorbs UV radiation.

What occurs in the mesosphere?

Meteors burn up creating shooting stars.

What characterizes the thermosphere?

High temperatures and it is home to the International Space Station (ISS).

Describe the exosphere.

The outermost layer of the atmosphere where satellites orbit.

What is air pollution?

The presence of harmful substances in the air.

What are primary pollutants?

Pollutants emitted directly into the air, e.g., SO2, CO.

What are secondary pollutants?

Pollutants formed by reactions of primary pollutants.

What are criteria pollutants?

Six pollutants regulated due to health risks.

What is particulate matter (PM)?

Particles smaller than 10 μm causing respiratory issues.

What is ground-level ozone?

A pollutant formed by reactions in sunlight.

Describe carbon monoxide (CO).

A colorless gas that reduces oxygen supply.

What is sulfur dioxide (SO2)?

A gas from industrial emissions that causes acid rain.

What is nitrogen dioxide (NO2)?

A gas that irritates the respiratory system and contributes to smog.

What is the significance of lead in air pollution?

A heavy metal that harms nervous systems, especially in children.

Define acid rain.

Rain containing sulfuric and nitric acids.

What are the main sources of acid rain?

Mainly from fossil fuel combustion.

How does ozone formation occur?

From CO oxidation in sunlight.

What is air quality assessment?

Evaluating project emissions' impact on air.

What is climate change mitigation?

Technologies to reduce climate change effects.

Define material durability in the context of air pollution.

Impact of pollutants on material lifespan.

What is an environmental impact assessment?

Evaluating project effects on the environment.

What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?

Organic chemicals contributing to air pollution.

What are hydrocarbons?

Compounds of carbon and hydrogen; often derived from petroleum.

Explain temperature variation in the atmosphere.

Temperature changes with altitude.