pollutants, elements, greenhouse gases, hydrocarbons, and other relevant terms for AP Environmental Science (APES).

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)

A colorless, corrosive gas produced by burning coal and oil, causing respiratory issues and acid rain.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

Gases produced during fossil fuel combustion, contributing to smog and respiratory problems.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Colorless, odorless gas from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, harmful to human health.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Tiny particles in the air, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic chemicals that evaporate easily, contributing to ozone formation and smog.

Ozone (O₃)

A reactive molecule, protective in the stratosphere but a pollutant in the troposphere.

Lead (Pb)

A heavy metal released into the air, toxic to the nervous system.

Mercury (Hg)

Toxic metal from coal combustion, can cause neurological damage.

Carbon (C)

Basic element in all organisms, major component of the carbon cycle.

Nitrogen (N)

Essential for living organisms, key part of the nitrogen cycle.

Sulfur (S)

Found as sulfates and SO₂, contributes to acid rain.

Phosphorus (P)

Key element for DNA and ATP, often limiting nutrient for plants.

Potassium (K)

Vital nutrient for plant growth, affects water balance.

Calcium (Ca)

Essential mineral found in limestone, key for living organisms.

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

Colorless gas from fossil fuels, major greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.

Methane (CH₄)

Colorless gas from livestock and landfills, potent greenhouse gas.

Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)

Greenhouse gas from agriculture, contributes to global warming.

Water Vapor (H₂O)

Naturally occurring greenhouse gas that amplifies global warming.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Synthetic compounds causing ozone depletion and are potent greenhouse gases.

Methane (CH₄) in Hydrocarbons

Simplest hydrocarbon, powerful greenhouse gas.

Propane (C₃H₈)

Hydrocarbon fuel for heating and cooking, releases CO₂ when burned.

Butane (C₄H₁₀)

Hydrocarbon used in fuel canisters, produces CO₂ when burned.

Benzene (C₆H₆)

Volatile organic compound, toxic and a known carcinogen.

Toluene (C₇H₈)

Hydrocarbon in industrial chemicals, toxic and harmful to health.

Acid Rain

Unusually acidic rainfall caused by SO₂ and NOx, damaging ecosystems.

Eutrophication

Enrichment of water with excess nutrients, causing algal blooms.

Smog

Air pollution from smoke and fog, causes respiratory issues and reduced visibility.