Comparing Atmospheric Pollutants

What is the main environmental effect of carbon dioxide?

It contributes to global warming through the enhanced greenhouse effect.

What is the main health danger of carbon monoxide?

It reduces oxygen transport in the blood.

What are the main effects of sulfur dioxide?

Respiratory irritation and acid rain.

What are the main effects of nitrogen oxides?

Respiratory problems, acid rain and photochemical smog.

What are the main effects of particulates?

Respiratory and cardiovascular harm, with some particulates also affecting climate.

Which pollutant is associated with incomplete combustion and haemoglobin?

Carbon monoxide.

Which pollutant is associated with sulfur impurities in fuels?

Sulfur dioxide.

Which pollutants form when nitrogen and oxygen react at high temperatures?

Nitrogen oxides.

Which pollutants are associated with incomplete combustion and black smoke?

Carbon particulates or soot.

Which pollutant is mainly associated with the enhanced greenhouse effect from burning fossil fuels?

Carbon dioxide.

Which two pollutants are major contributors to acid rain?

Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

Which pollutant is colourless, odourless and highly toxic?

Carbon monoxide.

Which pollutant can reduce albedo when deposited on snow?

Black carbon or soot.

Why should different pollutants not be treated as interchangeable?

They have different chemical properties, sources and environmental effects.