Common Atmospheric Pollutants & Their Properties Flashcards
What does sulfur do when burned?
What does this produce?
Sulfur oxidises when burned. This produces the toxic gas sulfur dioxide.
Where is sulfur present?
All fossil fuels.
What happens when fossil fuels are burned in a confined space?
What does this lead to?
The high temperatures can cause nitrogen and oxygen to react. This leads to the formation of toxic nitrogen oxides.
When does incomplete combustion happen?
When fuels are burned in insufficient oxygen.
What two products does incomplete combustion produce?
Carbon monoxide - a toxic gas. Particulates - small solid particles containing carbon and unburnt fuel.
What does carbon monoxide do to blood?
What does this cause?
Carbon monoxide binds to haemoglobin in the blood. This restricts the blood’s ability to transport oxygen throughout the body.
Why is carbon monoxide difficult to detect in the air?
It is odourless and colourless.
What happens if you are exposed to too much carbon monoxide?
Symptoms can range from fainting to fatality.
What does inhaling particulates cause?
Respiratory issues.
What do particulates reflect?
What does this lead to?
Particulates reflect incoming radiation out into space. This leads to global dimming, which decreases the levels of sunlight available for photosynthesis.
What does inhaling sulfur dioxide cause?
Respiratory issues.
What happens if sulfur dioxide reacts with water?
It forms sulfuric acid.
What is sulfuric acid a major part of?
What 3 things can that major thing cause?
Acid rain, it can cause:
- The corrosion of steel
- The weathering of buildings, monuments, and statues.
- The death of insects, plants, and aquatic organisms.
What does inhaling nitrogen oxides cause?
Respiratory issues.
What happens if nitrogen oxides react with water?
It forms nitric acid.
