The Dirty 6 (Criteria Pollutants) Flashcards
Why is carbon monoxide difficult to detect?
It is colorless and odorless.
Where does the majority of carbon monoxide come from?
Combustion of fossil fuels.
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
It can bind to hemoglobin in blood and interfere with the body’s ability to carry oxygen throughout the body. It can kill.
What is the main source of sulfur dioxide?
Burning sulfur-rich coal.
What is the adverse consequence of sulfur dioxide combing with atmospheric water vapor?
Acid rain.
Where is H2SO4 a major contributor to acid rain?
U.S. and Canada.
What is a major producer of nitrogen oxides?
Burning fuels.
How can you identify nitrogen oxide gas?
It is foul smelling and a red or brown color.
Nitrogen oxides often contribute to this particular condition in cities.
Photochemical smog.
How do nitrogen oxides negatively contribute to precipitation?
It can make acid rain by forming nitric acid when mixing with water vapor.
Why is tropospheric ozone only bad in the troposphere?
It contributes to photochemical smog.
What is thermal inversion?
A layer of warm air settles over cool air. This results in pollutants being trapped, instead of the usual rising and scattering.
Why is smog bad for humans?
It contributes to many respiratory ailments.
What is particulate matter?
Any particle or aerosol small enough to be carried aloft.
Why is particle matter dangerous?
It can damage respiratory tissues and cause respiratory ailments.
