APES unit 7

Front

What is particulate matter?

Back

Particulate matter (PM) refers to tiny particles or droplets in the air that can be inhaled and cause health problems. It includes substances like pollen, dander, soot, carbon, and dust.

Front

What are the health effects of lead exposure?

Back

Lead exposure can cause neurological damage, particularly in children, leading to developmental issues, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.

Front

What is NOx and where does it come from?

Back

NOx refers to nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants that primarily come from gasoline combustion in vehicles.

Front

What is the function of wet scrubber technology?

Back

Wet scrubber technology is used to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate emissions from smokestacks by capturing these pollutants in a liquid.

Front

What size of particulate matter is most harmful to human health?

Back

Particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometers or smaller (PM2.5) is considered the most harmful to human health due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lungs.

Front

Define sulfur dioxide (SO2).

Back

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, produced by volcanic eruptions and industrial processes, particularly the burning of fossil fuels.

Front

What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?

Back

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature, contributing to air pollution and health risks.

Front

Explain the term 'combustion'.

Back

Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts rapidly with oxygen, producing heat and light, often resulting in the release of gases and particulates.

Front

What is the hydrologic cycle?

Back

The hydrologic cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is the impact of coal combustion on air quality?

Back

Coal combustion releases pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which can degrade air quality and harm human health.