Pollution introduction Flashcards
What is pollution?
energy or matter released into the environment with the potential to cause adverse (harm) changes to an ecosystem
the change
What causes pollution?
Can be caused by humans but nature can produce similar effects
What is a pollutant?
the thing that causes the damage
What is an example of direct pollution?
effluent discharge from factories or wastewater treatment plants which can kill aquatic organisms
What is an example of indirect pollution?
sulphur dioxide emission cause acidic rain which can damage or kill trees and crops
What states can pollutants be found in?
gases
liquids
solids
What are some example of pollutants that can be found as gases?
carbon dioxide
sulphur dioxide
CFCs
Nitrogen oxide
Methane
What are some example of pollutants that can be found as liquids?
oil
mercury
pesticides
fertilisers
sewage
hot water
What are some example of pollutants that can be found as solids?
plastics
acid mine drainage
nitrogen fertilisers
smoke
solid domestic waste
How does pollution behave in the environment?
all pollutants have a source (origin), pathway ( method of travel) and sinks (where it collects)
properties determine where it travels and how long it acts
What might chemical reactions involving a pollutant cause?
may cause it to degrade and produce less harmful materials but may allow production of secondary pollutants
What are the major types of pollution?
Air
Water
Noise
Soil and land
