Module 13Air Pollution and Global Change

Air is a mixture of many gases including Nitrogen

Oxygen

Carbon Dioxide

Water Vapor

And Traces of other gases

Any change in the atmosphere that has harmful effects is calledAir pollution

Any substance that causes pollution is called a

pollutant

Solid particles and gases that are released into the air are called

emissions

A main cause of emissions is motor vehicles releasing carbon monoxide into the air.

When certain gases in the air react with sunlight, it can create a thick brownish haze called smog.

When the smog level is high, it can settle over the city causing a dirty haze.

Potential threats to humans are breathing trouble, throat irritation, and burning eyes.

Major sources of smog are gases emitted from vehicles

Acid rain is another type of air pollution.

Acid rain is caused by power plants and factories that burn coal and oil, and release chemicals into the air.

Gases from factories and power plants react in the air with water vapor and form acids that return to the earth as precipitation.

Acid rain damages many things in the environment including: fish, plants, buildings, statues and more.

The air inside buildings can be polluted too: this is indoor pollution.

Dust, pet hair, air fresheners, smoke, toxic fumes from cleaning supplies can all contribute to indoor air pollution.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an indoor air pollutant that is a colorless and odorless gas that forms when wood, coal, oil or gas is not completely burned.

Radon is another colorless and odorless gas formed naturally by certain rocks underground. Radon is radioactive.

We humans are the leading factor in creating air pollution and other hazardous wastes on Earth.

Humans contribute to deforestation (cutting down trees which produce oxygen)

Humans also affect the natural process on earth called The Greenhouse Effect.

Hazardous waste is any material that can be harmful to human health or the environment if not properly disposed of

Greenhouse gases trap heat in the air which aids in keep the earth a suitable temperature for us to survive.