APES Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution

Front

What is the role of CaCO₃ in environmental science?

Back

CaCO₃ (calcium carbonate) can be used to raise the pH of water and soil, and is also utilized in scrubbers to remove pollutants from industrial emissions.

Front

What are thermal inversions?

Back

Thermal inversions occur when a layer of warm air traps cooler air at the surface, leading to increased pollution concentrations and smog formation.

Front

What is the primary source of atmospheric mercury?

Back

The majority of atmospheric mercury is produced by coal burning power plants.

Front

During a thermal inversion, what type of air is trapped?

Back

During a thermal inversion, warm air is surrounded by cooler air.

Front

What are some health problems caused by air pollution?

Back

Air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, increased disease rates, and other health issues.

Front

Define atmospheric pollution.

Back

Atmospheric pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the air, which can affect human health, ecosystems, and the climate.

Front

What is smog?

Back

Smog is a type of air pollution that is a mixture of smoke and fog, often exacerbated by thermal inversions.

Front

What are VOCs?

Back

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution and health problems.

Front

How do scrubbers work?

Back

Scrubbers are devices used in industrial processes to remove pollutants from exhaust gases, often using a liquid to absorb harmful substances.

Front

What is acid deposition?

Back

Acid deposition refers to the falling of acids from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, often as a result of air pollution from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.