monitoring atmospheric pollutants

Question 1

what are the ways of monitoring atmospheric pollutants

Answer 1

1) biological indicators

2) Technological methods

Question 2

how can biological indicators hep monitor atmospheric pollutants

Answer 2

1) lichens - they have no roots or protective surface so cant filter what they absorb, therefore pollutants accumulate in the lichen, therefore concentrations can be monitored
2) diatoms- a form of algae which can indicate water acidity levels
3) gladioli- a species of flower which can be used to indicate fluoride levels

Question 3

what makes a good biological indicator

Answer 3

1) generally distributed
2) normally present with no pollution
3) easy to find and identify
4) range of species with different sensitivities