Air Pollution

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What is air pollution?

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Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere, which can have adverse effects on human health, the environment, and the climate.

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What are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?

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CFCs are man-made chemical compounds used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants that contribute to ozone layer depletion.

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How do CFCs affect the ozone layer?

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CFCs release chlorine atoms in the stratosphere, which catalyze the breakdown of ozone (O3) into oxygen (O2), reducing the ozone layer's ability to block harmful UV radiation.

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What is the role of a catalytic converter in vehicles?

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A catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions from internal combustion engines by converting toxic gases like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances.

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What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?

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VOCs are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution, often found in paints, solvents, and fuels.

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What is ground-level ozone?

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Ground-level ozone is a secondary pollutant formed by the reaction of VOCs and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight, contributing to smog and respiratory problems.

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What is the Montreal Protocol?

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The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty designed to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, including CFCs.

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What is acid rain?

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Acid rain is precipitation that contains high levels of sulfuric and nitric acids, primarily caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from industrial processes.

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What is the difference between primary and secondary pollutants?

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Primary pollutants are directly emitted into the atmosphere (e.g., CO2, NOx), while secondary pollutants are formed through chemical reactions in the atmosphere (e.g., ground-level ozone).

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What is smog?

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Smog is a type of air pollution characterized by a mixture of smoke and fog, often exacerbated by high levels of particulate matter and ground-level ozone.