Question

Name any four air pollutants and describe their harmful effects.

Answer 1

The four air pollutants are:

$CO,O_3,S{O}_2,N{O}_2$

(i) Carbon Monoxide $\left(CO\right)$ : It is a colorless and odorless gas which is formed due to the incomplete combustion of carbon in fuels. Exposure to $CO$ causes flu-like symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, etc; Chest pain; at high concentration impaired vision and coordination; potentially serious health effects on unborn babies when exposed to high levels.

(ii) Ozone $\left(O_3\right)$ : It is composed of three oxygen atoms joined together. $O_3$ is found in two areas of Earth's atmosphere: in upper atmosphere and at ground level.

In the upper atmosphere, it protects us by filtering out damaging UV radiation from the Sun. At ground level, it is damaging to our health. $O_3$ at ground level is the main component of Smog.

Exposure to $O_3$ causes irritation & inflammation of eyes, nose, throat and lower airways; reduced lungs function; asthma and chronic respiratory diseases, etc.

(iii) Nitrogen Dioxide $\left(N{O}_2\right)$ : Highly reactive gas, it causes;

-increased susceptibility to lung infections with asthma people.

-airway inflammation in healthy people.

-worsened symptoms of asthma.

(iv) Sulphur Dioxide $\left(S{O}_2\right)$ : Highly reactive gas with pungent odour. Exposure to $S{O}_2$ causes:

-More frequent asthma attacks.

-Narrowing of the airways leading to wheezing, chest tightness, etc.

-Exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases.