Air pollution
Air pollution is the release of harmful substances into the atmosphere in large amounts which can damage humans, animals, plants and properties.
The agents that cause the pollution of the atmosphere are called air pollutants.
air pollutants
The air pollutants are as follows:
- Gaseous hydrocarbon: Gaseous hydrocarbons are released into the atmosphere through different activities like incomplete combustion of coal, oil, wood, decomposition of organic matter, deforestation. They Combine with oxides nitrogen in the presence of light to produce smog. Smog reduces visibility and causes respiratory problems. The hydrocarbons can also produce cancer.
- CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons: These are synthetic compounds composed of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They were commonly used as refrigerants, propellants in aerosol sprays, and as solvents. While they don't harm us directly, CFCs have a detrimental impact on the environment.
When released into the atmosphere, CFCs can reach the stratosphere, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine atoms. These chlorine atoms then participate in catalytic reactions that destroy ozone molecules in the ozone layer. The purpose of the ozone layer is to serve as shield against excess U-V rays from the sun. Ozone depletion allows more UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface, which can lead to various environmental and health issues like skin cancers and sun burns.
- Oxides of carbon: Carbon (II) oxide is a toxic pollutant as very small amount of the gas present when inhaled can kill. It is released into the atmosphere by the combustion of fuel in limited or absence of air. When the gas is inhaled, it conbines with the Oxygen in the red-blood cells to form a complex compound carboxyl-haemoglobin which causes suffocation and death.
- Particulate matter: Solid pollutants emitted from industrial process, burning of coal and wood include smoke, soot and dust. They cause harm to the respiratory system when inhaled. Lead dust from exhaust of motor vehicles using lead petrol causes lead poisoning and injury in the nervous system.
- Oxides of nitrogen and sulphur: Oxides of sulphur and nitrogen dissolve in rain water to form acid rain which is harmful to plants, animals, buildings and metal structures. The oxides are also responsible for nose, throat irritation when inhaled causing respiratory difficulties.
While carbon (IV) oxide is a natural component of Earth's atmosphere, human activities have significantly increased its concentration. Carbon (IV) oxide is a major greenhouse gas, contributing to global warming and climate change. Elevated CO2 levels can lead to shifts in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Control of air pollution
- Reduce vehicle emissions by promoting public transportation.
- Encourage industries to adopt eco-friendly practices and technologies.
- Implement and enforce stricter regulations on emissions from factories.
- Promote the use of renewable energy sources for power generation.
- Create awareness campaigns to educate the public on air pollution prevention.
- Plant more trees to enhance natural air purification.
- Encourage responsible waste management and recycling practices.
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Air and air pollution
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Air and air pollution
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