Urban Climate

Question 1

What is particulate air pollution caused by?

Answer 1

The release of particles and noxious gases into the atmosphere

Question 2

What do photochemicals do to smogs?

Answer 2

Create smogs consisting of ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate.

Question 3

What is carbon monoxide?

Answer 3

A poisonous, odourless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuel. Caused by road transport. Can result in headaches, nausea and fatigue.

Question 4

What is particulate matter?

Answer 4

Tiny bits of solids or liquids suspended in the air. Originate from power station and vehicle exhausts. They can settle in airway and lungs, causing health issues.

Question 5

What is in photochemical smog?

Answer 5

Contains ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate which damages plants, causes headaches, coughs and chest pains. It’s caused by the action of sunlight on nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons in vehicle exhaust gases which causes a chemical reaction, resulting in ozone production.

Question 6

What are the pollution reduction policies in London?

Answer 6

• Act of 1956 that introduced smoke free zones which began to clean up the air.
• In 1990s, regulations were imposed on levels of airborne pollution, particularly on PM10s.
• air quality targets are set and monitored by DEFRA
• congestion charge introduced in 2013
• Ultra Low Emission Zone is being introduced from 2020
• zoning of industry by putting industry downwind in cities