15.3 Controlling 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 the main sources of air pollution?

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Main sources include vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, burning fossil fuels, and natural events like wildfires.

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What is ground-level ozone?

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Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant formed when sunlight reacts with pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from vehicles and industrial facilities.

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How does air pollution affect human health?

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Air pollution can lead to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and long-term health issues such as lung cancer.

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What is the role of the EPA?

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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for regulating air quality and enforcing laws to protect the environment and public health.

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What is a valley's effect on air pollution?

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Valleys can trap air pollutants, leading to higher concentrations of pollution in those areas, especially in large cities.

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What is the chemical formula for ozone?

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The chemical formula for ozone is O3, indicating that each molecule consists of three oxygen atoms.

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What are the short-term effects of air pollution?

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Short-term effects include sneezing, eye irritation, coughing, and exacerbation of asthma.

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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., carbon monoxide), while secondary pollutants form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions (e.g., ground-level ozone).

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What is the significance of air quality indices (AQI)?

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Air Quality Indices (AQI) provide a standardized way to report daily air quality levels and their potential health effects.