Definition

          Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful or excessive substances in the Earth's atmosphere that can have adverse effects on human health, wildlife, ecosystems, and the environment. It is caused by various pollutants released into the air, often originating from human activities and natural sources.

Origins and Sources of Air Pollution:

1.    Anthropogenic Sources (Human Activities):

  •  Industrial Emissions: Factories, power plants, and manufacturing facilities release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter.
  • Vehicle Exhaust: Combustion engines in cars, trucks, and other vehicles emit pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter.
  • Agricultural Practices: Pesticides, fertilizers, and livestock emit ammonia (NH3), methane (CH4), and other pollutants into the air.
  • Waste Disposal: Open burning of waste materials, including plastics, leads to the release of toxic fumes and particulates.
2.    Natural Sources:
  • Volcanic Activities: Eruptions release sulfur dioxide, ash, and other gases into the atmosphere.
  • Wildfires: Natural fires produce smoke, particulates, and carbon emissions.
  • Dust and Pollen: Natural processes like wind erosion, pollen dispersal, and soil disturbance contribute to airborne particulate matter.

3.    Indoor Air Pollution:

Household Activities: Cooking, heating, and use of solid fuels indoors can lead to indoor air pollution from smoke, carbon monoxide, and particulates.

Common Air Pollutants and Their Sources:

  • Particulate Matter (PM): Comes from combustion processes, vehicle exhaust, industrial activities, and natural sources like dust storms.
  • Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Generated from vehicle emissions, industrial combustion, and fossil fuel burning.
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Emitted from industrial processes, coal-burning power plants, and volcanic eruptions.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO): Produced by incomplete combustion in vehicles, engines, and fires.
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Released from vehicle emissions, industrial solvents, paints, and chemical manufacturing.

آخر تعديل: الثلاثاء، 28 نوفمبر 2023، 10:04 AM