Understanding Smog: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

What was the initial reaction of Los Angeles residents to the smog in 1943?

• They ignored it as a common occurrence.

• They believed it was a chemical warfare attack.

• They celebrated it as a weather event.

• They thought it was a natural phenomenon.

What are the two main components identified by Arie Haagen-Smit as causes of LA's smog?

• Carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide

• Volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides

• Methane and ozone

• Water vapor and dust

Which weather condition is most conducive to the formation of photochemical smog?

• Cold and rainy

• Snowy and humid

• Windy and cloudy

• Calm, dry, and sunny

What is a temperature inversion and how does it affect smog?

• A layer of cold air trapping pollution near the surface

• A layer of warm air trapping cold air, dispersing smog

• A layer of cold air trapping warm air, dispersing smog

• A layer of warm air trapping pollution near the surface

What are some health effects of smog exposure?

• Increased energy levels

• Eye irritation and respiratory issues

• Improved lung function

• Reduced risk of infections

How did the Great Smog of London in 1952 impact the city?

• It improved air quality immediately.

• It caused a significant number of respiratory deaths.

• It led to a decrease in coal usage.

• It had no significant impact on public health.

What was one of the major legislative responses to smog in London after the Great Smog of 1952?

• The Environmental Protection Act

• The Clean Air Act of 1956

• The Smog Reduction Act

• The Clean Water Act

Which countries are currently experiencing high levels of industrial smog due to coal dependency?

• Brazil and Argentina

• Australia and New Zealand

• China and Poland

• Canada and Sweden

What is one method governments have used to reduce smog in cities?

• Promoting deforestation

• Encouraging coal burning

• Banning cars from driving on certain days

• Increasing fossil fuel usage

What is a potential benefit of shifting to mass transit and reducing fossil fuel use?

• Decreased public transportation options

• Increased smog levels

• Higher energy costs

• Improved air quality