APES Unit 7 Flashcard: Atmospheric Pollution

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What is pH and why is it important in aquatic ecosystems?

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pH is a measure of how acidic or basic water is. It is important in aquatic ecosystems because it affects the solubility of nutrients and toxins, influencing the health of aquatic organisms.

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What is Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)?

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BOD is a measure of the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic matter in water. It indicates the level of pollution in water.

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What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?

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VOCs are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature. They can contribute to air pollution and have various health effects.

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What is photochemical smog and when is it most likely to occur?

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Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution that is formed when sunlight reacts with pollutants like VOCs and nitrogen oxides. It is most likely to occur in warm, sunny months, particularly July.

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What is thermal inversion and how does it affect air quality?

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Thermal inversion occurs when a layer of warm air traps pollutants close to the ground, preventing them from dispersing. This can lead to increased pollution levels.

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What are air emission standards?

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Air emission standards are regulations that limit the amount of pollutants that can be released into the atmosphere from various sources, such as vehicles and industrial facilities.

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What is the significance of catalytic converters in reducing emissions?

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Catalytic converters are devices in vehicles that convert harmful gases from engine exhaust into less harmful substances, significantly reducing air pollution.

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How does urbanization affect driving distances and emissions?

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Urbanization often leads to shorter driving distances due to increased public transport and walkability, which can reduce overall emissions from vehicles.

Front

What insulation options can contribute to indoor air pollution?

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Certain insulation materials, like mineral fiber batt, can release particles and chemicals into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution.

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What is the role of the Clean Air Act in regulating air quality?

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The Clean Air Act is a U.S. federal law that regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources to protect public health and the environment.