EMISSION OF POLLUTANTS

There has been rapid worldwide advancements in science and technology. But all these advancements have contributed to various forms of pollution. SOURCES. 1.INDUSTRIES. Industrial pollutants have been one of the major sources of pollution and affects resources like air, water (dams, rivers, lakes and oceans) and soil. Factories and power plants discharge hot water into the atmosphere which increases the water temperatures. This results in thermal pollution. This alters the level of oxygen in the water. The resultant effect is death of many aquatic plants and animals.

Types of Industrial Pollutants. Hot water (thermal pollution) Greenhouse gases (increase overall temp. of the earth) CO 2 Methane NB:Acid caused by industrial discharges especially sulfur dioxide (sulfuric acid) from power plants, resulting in acid rain.sulfur dioxidepower plants Fertilizers containing nutrients--nitrates and phosphates—which are found in stormwater runoff from agriculture, as well as commercial and residential use. EUTROPHICATION ? Fertilizersnitratesphosphates Cement in runoff from construction sites.

2.VEHICLES. Vehicle emissions have a variety of negative effects on public health and the natural environment.

Types of Vehicle Pollutants. Hydrocarbons - A class of burned or partially burned fuel. Toxic. Major contributor to smog and soot, which can be a major problem in urban areas. Contribute to asthma, liver disease, lung disease, and cancer. Carbon monoxide (CO) - A product of incomplete combustion, Reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen; Exposure (carbon monoxide poisoning) may be fatal. NB:Nitrogen oxides (NO x ) – NO x is a mixture of NO, N 2 O, and NO 2. Nitrogen reacts with oxygen at the high temperature inside the engine. NO x results in smog and acid rain. It destroys resistance to respiratory infection. Lead Lead compounds dissolve in water and act as neurotoxins in the body.

Household Pollutants Formaldehyde – Common ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash, room deodorant, air freshener and cosmetics. Carcinogen. Arsenic - In household pesticides. Low levels increase lung cancer risk. Carcinogen. Plastics (PVC) -- The plastic interior of new cars might release this carcinogen. Large exposures can lead to vinyl chloride disease, which causes severe liver damage. Propane, butane, phenol – room fresheners, deodorisers, personal deodorants. Contributing to respiratory disease and increased incidence of cancer.

NB:Water Pollution and Disease Most diseases in the world are related to water and sanitation. Faecal/sewage pollution of water increases the risk of infection. Agricultural products. Septic tanks Storage tanks (underground) Landfills.

PREVENTION OF POLLUTION Clean or change your air filter regularly. Change your engine oil at least as often as the manufacturer’s recommendation Drive smoothly – accelerate slowly. Travel light – don’t carry unnecessary loads. Don’t idle the engine unnecessarily. Use air conditioning sparingly. NB:The catalytic converter is a device placed in the exhaust pipe, which filters/converts hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and NOx into less harmful gases by using a combination of platinum, palladium and rhodium as catalysts.