Question

Major gaseous man-caused pollutant is:

• A. carbon dioxide
• B. carbon monoxide
• C. sulphur dioxide
• D. nitrogen oxides

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

sulphur dioxide

Sulphur oxides - particularly sulfur dioxide, a chemical compound with the formula $S{O}_2$. $S{O}_2$ is produced by volcanoes and in various industrial processes. Coal and petroleum often contain sulfur compounds, and their combustion generates sulfur dioxide. Further oxidation of $S{O}_2$, usually in the presence of a catalyst such as nitrogen oxide, and forms sulphuric acid, and thus acid rain. This is one of the causes for concern over the environmental impact of the use of these fuels as power sources.