Air Pollution

Whats in the Air? Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other gases Air pollution –Solid particles and gases that are released into the air are called emissions. –Motor vehicles release gases such as carbon monoxide

Smog Photochemical Smog –Thick brownish haze formed when certain gases in the air react with sunlight. Sources –Gases emitted by automobiles and trucks and industrial facilities Produce ozone

Smog Temperature Inversion –Normally, pollutants rise high in the air and blow away. –During a temperature inversion, a layer of warm air traps pollutants close to the ground

Smog Health Effects –Itchy, watery eyes and a scratchy throat –Lung problems –Harm the bodys defenses against infection –Smog alert

Acid Rain Rain is naturally a little acidic When precipitation is mixed with nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides produced by the burning of coal and oil, the process produces nitric acid and sulfuric acid –Acid rain changes the conditions in ponds and lakes, affecting the wildlife. –Acid rain on the ground can damage plants.

The Ozone Layer Even a small amount of ozone in the atmosphere protects people from the effects of too much ultraviolet radiation. Ozone Hole –Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs block the cycle that absorbs radiation. Refrigerators, air conditioners, aerosol spray cans 1990 many nations signed an agreement to ban the use of almost all CFCs by the year 2000.