Describe the causes and effects of air pollution.

Air pollution occurs when harmful substances are released into the atmosphere, affecting human health, wildlife, and the environment.

Causes of Air Pollution:

  1. Industrial Emissions: Factories and power plants release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter.
  2. Vehicle Emissions: Cars, trucks, and motorcycles emit carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides.
  3. Deforestation: The reduction of trees decreases oxygen production and increases carbon dioxide levels.
  4. Agricultural Activities: Fertilizers, pesticides, and livestock farming release ammonia and methane into the air.

Effects of Air Pollution:

  1. Health Problems: Causes respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and lung cancer.
  2. Environmental Damage: Leads to acid rain, which harms forests, water bodies, and soil.
  3. Climate Change: Increases global warming due to greenhouse gas emissions.
  4. Ecosystem Disruption: Pollutants affect plant and animal life, altering food chains and biodiversity.

Related Questions:

  1. Describe the sources of air pollutants.
  2. Describe acid rain and its effects.
  3. Describe ozone depletion and its effects.
  4. Describe global warming.
  5. Explain ozone formation.
  6. Differentiate between the stratosphere and the troposphere.
  7. Explain the greenhouse effect and its impact on global warming.
  8. Why is global warming often referred to as the greenhouse effect?
  9. There is scientific evidence that CFCs contribute to the depletion of ozone. Why?
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  11. List two main sources of acid rain.
  12. List four human activities that contribute to air pollution.
  13. What is the importance of stratospheric ozone?
  14. What is the role of automobiles in air pollution?
  15. Define atmosphere.
  16. Explain temperature variation in the stratosphere and troposphere.
  17. List the components of the stratosphere and troposphere.
  18. Sulfur dioxide is a common pollutant from burning coal. State two effects caused by this pollutant.
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