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Air Quality and Health Chapter 25, Lesson 2 Pruitt, Allegrante, Prothrow-Stith, Health, Pearson, 2014
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Write: Make a list of indoor conditions that might affect indoor air quality. Then, write back with your response and advice. Dear Advice Line, My allergies always seem to be worse when I am indoors rather than outdoors. I thought flowers and other things found outdoors caused allergies. Is something wrong with me?
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Air Pollution 20% of air we breathe is oxygen Other 80% is nitrogen with small amount of other naturally occurring gases There are also harmful gases and particles in air we breathe
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Air Quality Index
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Pollution Presence or release of substances (pollutants) in environment in quantities harmful to living things Can damage respiratory systems, enter the bloodstream, harm other part of body, and reduce protection from sun’s radiation
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One of biggest sources of air pollution is burning of fossil fuels (energy-rich substances mined from deep in the Earth – coal, oil, and natural gas)
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Harmful gases released when liquids like gasoline or paint thinner evaporate in air; gas released from natural sources – volcanoes
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Smog Brown haze forms when air pollutants react in presence of sunlight When there is little or no wind, pollutants form layer over an area
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Ozone Layer Gas ozone is a pollutant when near ground Naturally high in atmosphere Plays a protective role – absorbs most of harmful ultraviolet rays from sun
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Ultraviolet Light Harmful to all living things Can cause skin cancer and cataracts Damage immune system
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Indoor Air Pollution Most severe in homes and other buildings sealed against air leaks Asbestos – fibrous mineral used in fireproofing and other building materials Radon – radioactive gas that leaks from rocks in ground through the foundation
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Protecting Air Quality Government regulations – Clean Air Act of 1970; additions since Alternative fuels – wind and solar power Car exhaust regulations Tax breaks for hybrid car owners
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What Can You Do? Ride a bike or use public transportation Avoid unnecessary trips Well-maintained vehicle Turn off lights and appliances when not in use
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Clean cooling fans and coils in appliances Set thermostat lower in winter and wear layers Set AC higher Be sure fuel-burning appliances well ventilated and working properly
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