All Flashcards
Define primary pollutants.
Pollutants emitted directly from a source.
Define secondary pollutants.
Pollutants formed when primary pollutants react in the atmosphere.
What are NOx?
Nitrogen oxides (like NO and NO2).
What are SOx?
Sulfur oxides (like SO2 and SO3).
What are COx?
Carbon oxides (like CO and CO2).
What is the Clean Air Act?
US federal law regulating air emissions.
Define hydrocarbons.
Organic compounds made of hydrogen and carbon.
Define particulates.
Tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air.
Define VOCs.
Volatile Organic Compounds that evaporate easily.
Define PM2.5.
Particulate Matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less.
What are primary pollutants?
Pollutants emitted directly from a source.
What are secondary pollutants?
Pollutants formed when primary pollutants react in the atmosphere.
What are NOx?
Nitrogen oxides (like NO and NO2).
What are SOx?
Sulfur oxides (like SO2 and SO3).
What are COx?
Carbon oxides (like CO and CO2).
What is the Clean Air Act?
US federal law regulating air emissions.
What are hydrocarbons?
Organic compounds made of hydrogen and carbon.
What are particulates?
Tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air.
What are VOCs?
Volatile Organic Compounds that evaporate easily.
Define Particulate Matter (PM)
Solid and liquid particles in the air, classified by size (PM10, PM2.5).
Why is burning coal a major source of air pollution?
Releases CO2, SO2, mercury, lead, and particulates.
Why is PM2.5 particularly dangerous?
It can get deep into the lungs.
How is ozone formed?
Formed from NOx and VOCs in sunlight.
What is the main source of Nitric Oxide (NO)?
Burning fossil fuels.
What is the main source of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)?
Burning sulfur-containing fuels (like coal).
What is the main source of Ammonia (NH3)?
From organic matter breakdown and fertilizers.
What is the effect of Carbon Monoxide (CO) on health?
Headaches, dizziness, death.
What is the effect of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) on health?
Respiratory issues.
What is the effect of Ozone (O3) on health?
Respiratory issues.
What is the effect of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) on the environment?
Contributes to PM and acid rain.