Atmospheric Chemistry

Atmosphere Composition 78.08% nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen, 0.93% argon. Greenhouse Gases Gases like CO2, CH4, N2O, and O3 contributing to warming. Troposphere Lowest layer; weather occurs here. Stratosphere Contains ozone layer; absorbs UV radiation. Mesosphere Meteors burn up, creating shooting stars. Thermosphere High temperatures; home to the ISS. Exosphere Outermost layer; satellites orbit here. Air Pollution Presence of harmful substances in the air. Primary Pollutants Emitted directly into the air, e.g., SO2, CO. Secondary Pollutants Formed by reactions of primary pollutants. Criteria Pollutants Six pollutants regulated due to health risks. Particulate Matter (PM) Particles <10 μm causing respiratory issues. Ground-level Ozone Pollutant formed by reactions in sunlight. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Colorless gas reducing oxygen supply. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Gas from industrial emissions; causes acid rain. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) Gas irritating respiratory system; contributes to smog. Lead Heavy metal harming nervous systems, especially in children. Acid Rain Rain containing sulfuric and nitric acids. Sources of Acid Rain Mainly from fossil fuel combustion. Ozone Formation Occurs from CO oxidation in sunlight. Air Quality Assessment Evaluating project emissions' impact on air. Climate Change Mitigation Technologies to reduce climate change effects. Material Durability Impact of pollutants on material lifespan. Environmental Impact Assessment Evaluating project effects on environment. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Organic chemicals contributing to air pollution. Hydrocarbons Compounds of carbon and hydrogen; petroleum products. Temperature Variation Temperature changes with altitude in atmosphere.