MAJOR AIR POLLUTANTS

Air pollution is a real public health and environmental problem that can lead toamong other thingsglobal warming, acid rain, and the deterioration of the ozone layer. This chart names some common pollutants, their sources, and their effect on the environment. Pollutant Ozone. A gas that can be found in two places. Near the ground (the troposphere), it is a major part of smog. The harmful ozone in the lower atmosphere should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere (stratosphere), which screens out harmful ultraviolet rays. Sources Ozone is not created directly, but is formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds mix in sunlight. That is why ozone is mostly found in the summer. Nitrogen oxides come from burning gasoline, coal, or other fossil fuels. There are many types of volatile organic compounds, and they come from sources ranging from factories to trees. Carbon monoxide is released when engines burn fossil fuels. Emissions are higher when engines are not tuned properly, and when fuel is not completely burned. Cars emit a lot of the carbon monoxide found outdoors. Furnaces and heaters in the home can emit high concentrations of carbon monoxide, too, if they are not properly maintained. Nitrogen dioxide mostly comes from power plants and cars. Nitrogen dioxide is formed in two wayswhen nitrogen in the fuel is burned, or when nitrogen in Effects Ozone near the ground can cause a number of health problems. Ozone can lead to more frequent asthma attacks in people who have asthma and can cause sore throats, coughs, and breathing difficulty. It may even lead to premature death. Ozone can also hurt plants and crops.

Carbon monoxide. A gas that comes from the burning of fossil fuels, mostly in cars. It cannot be seen or smelled.

Nitrogen dioxide. A reddishbrown gas that comes from the burning of fossil fuels. It has a strong smell at high levels.

Carbon monoxide makes it hard for body parts to get the oxygen they need to run correctly. Exposure to carbon monoxide makes people feel dizzy and tired and gives them headaches. In high concentrations it is fatal. Elderly people with heart disease are hospitalized more often when they are exposed to higher amounts of carbon monoxide. High levels of nitrogen dioxide exposure can give people coughs and can make them feel short of breath. People who are exposed to nitrogen dioxide for a long

Particulate matter. Solid or liquid matter that is suspended in the air. To remain in the air, particles usually must be less than 0.1-mm wide and can be as small as 0.00005 mm.

Sulfur dioxide. A corrosive gas that cannot be seen or smelled at low levels but can have a rotten egg smell at high levels.

the air reacts with oxygen at very high temperatures. Nitrogen dioxide can also react in the atmosphere to form ozone, acid rain, and particles. Particulate matter can be divided into two types coarse particles and fine particles. Coarse particles are formed from sources like road dust, sea spray, and construction. Fine particles are formed when fuel is burned in automobiles and power plants. Sulfur dioxide mostly comes from the burning of coal or oil in power plants. It also comes from factories that make chemicals, paper, or fuel. Like nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide reacts in the atmosphere to form acid rain and particles.

time have a higher chance of getting respiratory infections. Nitrogen dioxide reacts in the atmosphere to form acid rain, which can harm plants and animals. Particulate matter that is small enough can enter the lungs and cause health problems. Some of these problems include more frequent asthma attacks, respiratory problems, and premature death.

Lead. A blue-gray metal that is Outside, lead comes from very toxic and is found in a cars in areas where unleaded number of forms and locations. gasoline is not used. Lead can also come from power plants and other industrial sources. Inside, lead paint is an important source of lead, especially in houses where paint is peeling. Lead in old pipes can also be a source of lead in drinking water. Toxic air pollutants. A large Each toxic air pollutant Toxic air pollutants

Sulfur dioxide exposure can affect people who have asthma or emphysema by making it more difficult for them to breathe. It can also irritate people's eyes, noses, and throats. Sulfur dioxide can harm trees and crops, damage buildings, and make it harder for people to see long distances. High amounts of lead can be dangerous for small children and can lead to lower IQs and kidney problems. For adults, exposure to lead can increase the chance of having heart attacks or strokes.

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number of chemicals that are known or suspected to cause cancer. Some important pollutants in this category include arsenic, asbestos, benzene, and dioxin.

Stratospheric ozone depleters. Chemicals that can destroy the ozone in the stratosphere. These chemicals include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other compounds that include chlorine or bromine. Greenhouse gases. Gases that stay in the air for a long time and warm up the planet by trapping sunlight. This is called the greenhouse effect because the gases act like the glass in a greenhouse. Some of the important greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

comes from a slightly different source, but many are created in chemical plants or are emitted when fossil fuels are burned. Some toxic air pollutants, like asbestos and formaldehyde, can be found in building materials and can lead to indoor air problems. Many toxic air pollutants can also enter the food and water supplies. CFCs are used in air conditioners and refrigerators, since they work well as coolants. They can also be found in aerosol cans and fire extinguishers. Other stratospheric ozone depleters are used as solvents in industry. Carbon dioxide is the most important greenhouse gas. It comes from the burning of fossil fuels in cars, power plants, houses, and industry. Methane is released during the processing of fossil fuels, and also comes from natural sources like cows and rice paddies. Nitrous oxide comes from industrial sources and decaying plants.

cause cancer. Some toxic air pollutants can also cause birth defects. Other effects depend on the pollutant, but can include skin and eye irritation and breathing problems.

If the ozone in the stratosphere is destroyed, people are exposed to more radiation from the sun (ultraviolet radiation). This can lead to skin cancer and eye problems. Higher ultraviolet radiation can also harm plants and animals. The greenhouse effect can lead to changes in the climate of the planet. Some of these changes might include more temperature extremes, higher sea levels, changes in forest composition, and damage to land near the coast. Human health might be affected by diseases that are related to temperature or by damage to land and water.

Ozone O2 + O --> O3 In the stratosphere, ozone is formed when an O2 molecule absorbs UV light and breaks down into 2 oxygen atoms (O2 + UV --> 2O); one of these atoms reacts with an O2 molecule to form ozone (O2 + O --> O3). Carbon monoxide (CO) One carbon (four bonds) sharing two bonds with oxygen and two bonds free (thus its ability to steal oxygen from the air) | C=O | Nitrogen dioxide Nitrogen dioxide typically arises via the oxidation of nitric oxide by oxygen in air: 2 NO + O2 2 NO2 Nitrogen dioxide is formed in most combustion processes using air as the oxidant. At elevated temperatures nitrogen combines with oxygen to form nitrogen dioxide: 2O2 + N2 2 NO2 Sulfur dioxide Sulfur dioxide has the chemical formula SO2 Each sulfur atom (S) unites with one oxygen molecule (O2) Thus, S +O2 ---> SO2 Lead The chemical formula for lead is Pb. This comes from the Latin plumbum, which translates to lead. Pipes often were made of lead, so those who worked on them were called plumbers.

MECHANISM OF POLLUTION

Shows stratification of the atmosphere. As depicted in the figure, the atmosphere consists of four distinct regions. The Troposphere is the region nearest the earths surface and extends up about 7 km at the poles and 17 km at the equator with some variation due to weather factors. Next to the troposphere we have the stratosphere which extends up to about 50 km from the surface of the Earth. Above the stratosphere we have the mesosphere, which lies between 50 to 85 km from the earth's surface, and the thermosphere goes from 85 km to 500 km away from the earth's surface. The boundaries between these regions are named the tropopause, stratopause, mesopause, and thermopause. The average temperature of the atmosphere at the surface of Earth is 14 C. Passenger jets normally fly near the top of the troposphere at altitudes of 10 to 12 km, and the world altitude record for aircraft is 37.65 km roughly in the middle of the stratosphere. The troposphere is composed of mostly nitrogen and oxygen gases with smaller

amounts of water vapor, argon, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, methane and traces of other gases. This is the region of the atmosphere where all life processes occur, and this region of the atmosphere is the one most affected by pollution resulting from human activities. Molecules in the stratosphere (which are not as dense as those in the troposphere) are exposed to much more intense radiation from the sun. This causes the molecules to have a higher kinetic energy. Stratospheric ozone is formed under these conditions by absorbing much of the UV light coming from solar radiation. The stratosphere is mainly composed of nitrogen, oxygen, nitrogen oxides and ozone. Molecules in the mesosphere, which are closer to the sun than the molecules in the stratosphere, are exposed to even more intense radiation that has the ability to simply ionize small molecules into positive ions and electrons. The mesosphere contains mostly ions of the same molecules that make up the stratosphere. The thermosphere is composed of a mixture of ions and highly charged atoms that are formed by the even more intense solar radiation than in the mesosphere. The variation in the amount of solar radiation reach the various levels of the atmosphere results in the observed changes in atmospheric composition. Molecules absorb light. Each layer of the atmosphere absorbs some sunlight, shielding the gases below from the radiation that it removes. Radiant energy coming from the sun strikes the earth and part of this energy is radiated back into the air. This is one of the factors that determine the temperature of the atmosphere at earth's surface. Another factor is the density of the gases in the air. As one moves away from the earth's surface, density of gaseous molecules decreases. As a result, convective heating has a smaller effect and the air cools.

Chlorofluorocarbons

HEALTH HAZARD INVOLVED

We, the habitants of modernized, highly mechanized and systematic world are enjoying the fast, updated lives, ignorant of the perils we are causing to the life on this universe. We are not simply utilizing but rather exploiting the natural resources. The dark clouds hovering above our lives are indeed an indication of the seriousness of situation. The repercussion is Environmental pollution, a grim problem of the modern world. A known definition of Pollution confirms the situation. It is contamination of Earth's environment with materials that interfere with human health, the quality of life, or the natural functioning of ecosystems. Although some environmental pollution is a result of natural causes such as volcanic eruptions, most is caused by human activities. It is ironic to know that we have been taught about the four major types of pollution (Air, Water, Land and Soil) since our school days. But no where do we exhibit signs of that acquired knowledge. We limit the information to the books. Various routine human behaviors are fueling the much talked about pollution. Dumping household trash on the streets or nearby barren land, improper disposal of wastes, littering public places and flipping rubbish carelessly from car windows are some examples portraying our unaccountable doings. Smoke emitting from chimneys and vehicles both add their share as well. Deforestation, to accommodate the increasing population on this earth is another reason. Some of the most important air pollutants are sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, volatile organic compounds and airborne particles, with radioactive pollutants are probably among the most destructive ones (specifically when produced by nuclear explosions). The aftermaths of air pollution can be: Reduced lung functioning Irritation of eyes, nose, mouth and throat

 Asthma attacks Respiratory symptoms such as coughing Increased respiratory diseases such as bronchitis Reduced energy levels Headaches and dizziness Disruption of endocrine, reproductive and immune systems Neurobehavioral disorders Cardiovascular problems Cancer Premature death Water pollutants include insecticides and herbicides, food processing waste, pollutants from livestock operations, heavy metals, chemical waste and others. Polluted drinking water can cause waterborne disease like, typhoid, hepatitis, gastroenteritis, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach aches, hookworms etc. Some soil pollutants are hydrocarbons, solvents and heavy metals. Soil pollution gives birth to a variety of grim problems such as: Cancers like leukemia Lead in soil is especially hazardous for young children causing developmental damage to the brain Mercury can increase the risk of kidney damage; cyclodienes can lead to liver toxicity Neuromuscular blockage as well as depression of the central nervous system. Also causes headaches, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation and skin rash Noise pollution comes into existence due to loud and unpleasant vehicle horns, music and other sounds. Noise pollution is one of the major sources adding to the psychological problems in the modern era. Noise pollution can damages ear drums, loud sounds create stress and anxiety and numerous psychological problems. In order to avoid these countless health hazards, it is the responsibility of all, individually and collectively, to step forth and fight against this situation and indeed, our very own habits. We should confine ourselves to throw wastes on proper places, and a proper recycling mechanism should be adopted. Boiled or filtered water, if not on a larger scale then at least on household level, should be used.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Decrease Waste Reducing waste is a crucial step in preventing pollution. Landfills and incinerators release carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases that contribute to local and global air pollution. Choosing products with recyclable packaging or less packaging reduces waste. Check with your local recycling site to learn which plastics and other recyclables are aceepted. Avoid purchasing products that cannot be recycled locally. Compost food wastes to reduce landfill space and pollution. (See References 1, 3)

Reduce Toxins Mercury, a bioaccumulating toxin that affects the brain and neurological health, can be found in electrical switches, fluorescent bulbs, thermometers, thermostats and older batteries. Bioaccumulation is a process in which mercury, or any other persistent pollutant, accumulates in fatty tissues of animals and plants and increases in concentration as the food chain progresses. To prevent mercury pollution, choose mercury-free products, like digital thermometers, or use products that contain little mercury. Check with local waste management services about the best method for disposing of mercury-containing products. (See References 1, page 9) Degreasers, pesticide formulations, cleaning products and paints often contain ethoxylates and nonylphenol. These chemical compounds pollute groundwater and are toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. Choosing products free of these chemicals helps prevent pollution. (See References 1, pages 9--10) Use More Efficient Transportation Selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle is an essential step for pollution prevention. One year of using fuel-efficient vehicles reduces greenhouse gas emissions by one ton, according to the Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy. Maintaining your vehicle is also essential to preventing pollution. Low tire pressure and a poorly tuned engine increase fuel consumption and emissions by 50 percent. Carpooling, public transportation, walking and biking are ways to reduce pollutants, prevent wear and tear on your vehicle, and save money. (See References 1) Reduce Energy Consumption Unplugging electronics when they are not in use and turning off unnecessary lights are examples of reducing energy consumption. Energy conservation does not require significant sacrifices. Purchasing energy-efficient and water-efficient appliances, electronics and plumbing devices reduces not only energy consumption but also your electric and water bills. The EPA partners with environmental organizations and industrial companies to select energy- and water-efficient products labeled with the Energy Star or WaterSense logos. (See References 3, 5, 6) Vote Green Support amendments, initiatives and laws that prevent pollution. Vote to encourage green infrastructure and low-impact development, improve waste reduction, decrease air pollution emissions and groundwater pollution, and limit pesticide use. Look for opportunities to support alternative energy sources. Local electric companies may offer wind or solar power alternatives.