APES UNIT 7
Primary air pollutants: Primary air pollutants are directly emitted into the atmosphere from various sources. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is mainly produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are released during combustion processes in vehicles and industrial activities. Carbon monoxide (CO) is generated from incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels.
Secondary air pollutants: Secondary air pollutants are formed in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants. Ozone (O3) is created by the reaction of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. Particulate matter (PM) consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, resulting from the transformation of gases like sulfur dioxide into solid particles.
Sources of air pollution: Air pollution sources are diverse and include transportation, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. The transportation sector contributes to air pollution through vehicle emissions, including exhaust fumes and particulate matter. Industries release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides during manufacturing processes. Agricultural activities like pesticide use and livestock farming also emit pollutants into the air.
VOCS: usually aerosol usage that starts to emit VOCs. volatile organic compounds.
Health effects: Exposure to air pollutants can have detrimental effects on human health, leading to respiratory issues such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes are also linked to air pollution, particularly due to the impact of fine particulate matter on the cardiovascular system.
Solutions: To combat air pollution, various strategies can be implemented, including emission controls and the use of alternative energy sources. Emission control technologies aim to reduce the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere by industries and vehicles. Transitioning to alternative energy sources like solar and wind power can help decrease reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate air pollution levels.
Indoor Air Pollutants for AP Environmental Sciences:
Indoor air pollutants are a pressing issue that affects the quality of air inside buildings. One common group of indoor air pollutants is volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are emitted by various household products such as paints, cleaning agents, and pesticides. VOCs can cause respiratory issues and contribute to indoor air pollution.
Another harmful indoor air pollutant is formaldehyde, a colorless gas found in building materials and household products like furniture and carpets. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can lead to respiratory problems and even cancer.
Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into buildings through the ground, especially in areas with high levels of uranium in the soil. Long-term exposure to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Asbestos, a mineral fiber once commonly used in construction materials, is another indoor air pollutant that poses serious health risks. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Lead, often found in old paint and water pipes, is a toxic metal that can contaminate indoor air and water sources. Exposure to lead can result in neurological and developmental issues, particularly in children.
Tobacco smoke is a well-known indoor air pollutant that contains numerous harmful chemicals. Secondhand smoke exposure can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and even cancer.
Overall, addressing indoor air pollutants is crucial for safeguarding public health and improving indoor air quality. AP Environmental Sciences students should be aware of these pollutants and their potential health effects to advocate for better indoor air quality standards.
Scrubbers:
Removes pollutants from industrial exhaust gases
Uses liquid to trap particles
Effective for removing sulfur dioxide and acid gases
Electrostatic Precipitators:
Removes particles from smokestacks
Uses electric charge to attract particles
Commonly used in coal-fired power plants
Prevents harmful vapors from escaping into the atmosphere
Captures and returns gasoline vapors to the fuel storage tank
Reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
Required at gas stations to comply with environmental regulations
Thermal Inversion:
Thermal inversion happens when warm air traps cool air close to the ground, stopping air from mixing up and down. This can make pollution build up and make the air quality worse.
Primary air pollutants: Primary air pollutants are directly emitted into the atmosphere from various sources. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is mainly produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are released during combustion processes in vehicles and industrial activities. Carbon monoxide (CO) is generated from incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels.
Secondary air pollutants: Secondary air pollutants are formed in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants. Ozone (O3) is created by the reaction of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. Particulate matter (PM) consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, resulting from the transformation of gases like sulfur dioxide into solid particles.
Sources of air pollution: Air pollution sources are diverse and include transportation, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. The transportation sector contributes to air pollution through vehicle emissions, including exhaust fumes and particulate matter. Industries release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides during manufacturing processes. Agricultural activities like pesticide use and livestock farming also emit pollutants into the air.
VOCS: usually aerosol usage that starts to emit VOCs. volatile organic compounds.
Health effects: Exposure to air pollutants can have detrimental effects on human health, leading to respiratory issues such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes are also linked to air pollution, particularly due to the impact of fine particulate matter on the cardiovascular system.
Solutions: To combat air pollution, various strategies can be implemented, including emission controls and the use of alternative energy sources. Emission control technologies aim to reduce the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere by industries and vehicles. Transitioning to alternative energy sources like solar and wind power can help decrease reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate air pollution levels.
Indoor Air Pollutants for AP Environmental Sciences:
Indoor air pollutants are a pressing issue that affects the quality of air inside buildings. One common group of indoor air pollutants is volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are emitted by various household products such as paints, cleaning agents, and pesticides. VOCs can cause respiratory issues and contribute to indoor air pollution.
Another harmful indoor air pollutant is formaldehyde, a colorless gas found in building materials and household products like furniture and carpets. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can lead to respiratory problems and even cancer.
Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into buildings through the ground, especially in areas with high levels of uranium in the soil. Long-term exposure to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Asbestos, a mineral fiber once commonly used in construction materials, is another indoor air pollutant that poses serious health risks. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Lead, often found in old paint and water pipes, is a toxic metal that can contaminate indoor air and water sources. Exposure to lead can result in neurological and developmental issues, particularly in children.
Tobacco smoke is a well-known indoor air pollutant that contains numerous harmful chemicals. Secondhand smoke exposure can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and even cancer.
Overall, addressing indoor air pollutants is crucial for safeguarding public health and improving indoor air quality. AP Environmental Sciences students should be aware of these pollutants and their potential health effects to advocate for better indoor air quality standards.
Scrubbers:
Removes pollutants from industrial exhaust gases
Uses liquid to trap particles
Effective for removing sulfur dioxide and acid gases
Electrostatic Precipitators:
Removes particles from smokestacks
Uses electric charge to attract particles
Commonly used in coal-fired power plants
Prevents harmful vapors from escaping into the atmosphere
Captures and returns gasoline vapors to the fuel storage tank
Reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
Required at gas stations to comply with environmental regulations
Thermal Inversion:
Thermal inversion happens when warm air traps cool air close to the ground, stopping air from mixing up and down. This can make pollution build up and make the air quality worse.
