Question

how does coal ash affect enviroment? suggest a method to use coal ash.

Answer 1

Chemically coal is a complex fuel. On burning, gases are given off and fly ash are released. The sulphur present in coal combines with oxygen to form sulphur dioxide, which can be a major source of air pollution. The two major environmental concerns today on using coal are:

• increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels (combustion has partially contributed to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels), which is responsible for 'green house effect'.
• acid rain.

​​The coal ash contains toxicants like arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium and selenium​ which cause cancer and neurological damage in humans. They can also harm and kill wildlife, especially fish and other aquatic species. ​

Best method to use coal ash is

• structural fill
• agricultural soil additive
• top layer on unpaved roads
• spread on snowy roads
• cinders on school running tracks