Air Pollution

Fossil fuels such as crude oil and coal, contains hydrocarbons
During combustion as the carbon and hydrogen in these compounds are oxidised so that carbon dioxide and water vapour are released into the atmosphere
When there’s plenty of oxygen all the fuel burns, this is called complete combustion
If there’s not enough oxygen, some of the fuel doesn’t burn, this is called incomplete combustion
Under these conditions, solid particles of soot and unburnt fuel are released and carbon monoxide can be produced as well as carbon dioxide
Particulates in the air can cause all sorts of problems:
- If particulates are inhaled, they can get stuck in the lungs and cause damage
- This can then lead to respiratory problems
- They’re also bad for the environment, they themselves or the clouds they help to produce reflect sunlight back into space
It’s not just particulates from incomplete combustion that cause problems, carbon monoxide is pretty nasty too
- Carbon monoxide is really dangerous because it can stop your blood from doing its proper job of carrying oxygen around the body
- A lack of oxygen in the blood can lead to fainting, a coma or even death

Sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen can be released