Unit 7 FRQ Flashcards
Describe different air pollutants aside from CO₂.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Particulate Matter (PM10 & PM2.5), Tropospheric Ozone (O₃), Lead (Pb), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Ammonia (NH₃).
Explain how wet scrubbers reduce air pollutants.
They spray water or chemical mist into emissions to trap SO₂, NOx, VOCs, and particulate matter (PM), which then falls as sludge for disposal.
Define the function of dry scrubbers in air pollution control.
They inject dry chemicals (like calcium oxide or sodium bicarbonate) into emissions to neutralize SO₂, NOx, and VOCs, forming a solid byproduct that is collected.
Identify the pollutants that wet scrubbers are designed to remove.
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM).
List the pollutants that dry scrubbers effectively remove.
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Describe the function of wet scrubbers in air pollution control.
Wet scrubbers use liquid to capture pollutants, producing wastewater in the process.
Explain the role of dry scrubbers in waste management.
Dry scrubbers turn pollutants into a dry powder for disposal, producing solid waste.
How do scrubbers contribute to reducing air pollution?
Scrubbers remove harmful gases and particulates from industrial emissions, which helps reduce acid rain and respiratory health issues.
Identify the main sources of indoor air pollution.
Main sources include burning biomass, tobacco smoke, household chemicals, building materials, and poor ventilation.
List common indoor air pollutants.
Common indoor air pollutants include carbon monoxide (CO), radon (Rn), particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold, and asbestos.
Describe how carbon monoxide (CO) contributes to indoor air pollution.
CO is produced from incomplete combustion of fuel and can lead to suffocation by reducing oxygen transport in blood.
What are the health risks associated with radon exposure?
Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer when inhaled over time.
Explain the origin of radon gas.
Radon is released from the natural decay of uranium in rocks and soil, seeping into buildings through foundation cracks.
Define volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their sources.
VOCs are chemicals that evaporate easily from household products like paints, cleaners, and adhesives.
How does mold affect indoor air quality?
Mold can release spores and mycotoxins into the air, leading to respiratory issues and other health problems.
Describe the health issues caused by mold spores.
Mold spores can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and worsen asthma.
Explain why asbestos is considered dangerous.
Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
How can indoor air pollution be effectively reduced?
Improving ventilation, using air purifiers, avoiding smoking indoors, and reducing the use of chemical-based products.
Define radon and its origin.
Radon is a radioactive gas that is naturally released from the decay of uranium in rocks and soil.
Describe how radon enters homes.
Radon enters homes through cracks in foundations, gaps in floors, and well water.
Explain the health risks associated with radon exposure.
Long-term exposure to radon increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
How can radon levels be reduced indoors?
Radon levels can be reduced by sealing foundation cracks, improving ventilation, and using radon mitigation systems.
Identify common sources of noise pollution.
Common sources of noise pollution include transportation (cars, planes, trains), industrial activity, construction, and household sources.
Describe the impact of noise pollution on human health.
Noise pollution can cause hearing loss, stress, sleep disturbances, and increased risk of heart disease.
How does noise pollution affect wildlife?
Noise pollution disrupts communication, migration, mating calls, and predator-prey interactions.
What measures can be taken to reduce noise pollution?
Noise pollution can be reduced by using noise barriers, enforcing quiet zones, urban planning, and personal ear protection.
