Question

Write down different pollutants that are emitted by automobiles and their effects on us.

Answer 1

Pollutants that emit from automobile contribute to the formation of smog. Following are some of the pollutants that are emitted by automobiles and how they affect us:-

1. Nitrogen oxides (NOx)- It can irritate our respiratory passage especially lungs. Nitrogen oxides are precursors for the formation of other smog components such as ground level ozone, secondary particulate matter and peroxy-acetyl nitrate (PAN).
   
2. Carbon monoxide- Carbon monoxide decreases the ability of your blood to carry oxygen.
   
3. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)- Different VOCs vary widely in toxicity. Benzene and 1, 3-butadiene are cancer-causing agents. VOC are precursors to ozone and secondary particulate matter formation.
4. Fine particulate matter- Fine particulate matter can be inhaled deep into the lungs. It is known to aggravate symptoms in individuals who already suffer from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases. Fine particulate matter may include toxic components such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and heavy metals.
5. Ground-level ozone- Ground-level ozone irritates respiratory passage. It can trigger reactions in people who have asthma.