DOL Air Pollution 3-24-25

Which are causes of pollution? Choose as many as apply.

• Cars

• Recycling programs

• Solar Panels

• Trucks

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

The pie chart to the right shows sources of carbon emissions in the United States.

Part A: What TWO sources contribute the most to carbon emissions? 

• Commercial/ Residential Usage 

  
  

• Agriculture

• Transportation

• Industry

• Electricity

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Part B: What do these two sources have in common?

• They generally are made from burning coal.

• They cause deforestation and acid rain.

• They are human activities that contribute to air pollution.

• They are good examples of how humans are helping the environment.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Greenville Town has been grappling with severe air pollution for years due to heavy industrial activities and high traffic emissions. The once-pristine air quality had deteriorated significantly, impacting the health and well-being of its residents. Realizing the urgency of the situation, the town has taken significant steps to clean up the air. 

Today, the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Greenfield Town is 125. While this is an improvement from the previous years when AQI often exceeded 150, the town is still working diligently to make the air healthier for its citizens.

Use the Air Quality Index to determine if it is safe for citizens to be outside today and explain your answer. 

• The AQI for Greenfield Town is in the category “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”. This means that some citizens can be outside without side effects but others with troubles breathing and other health issues might have negative side effects.

  
  

• The AQI for Greenfield Town is in the category “Hazardous”. This means that some citizens can be outside without side effects but others with troubles breathing and other health issues might have negative side effects.

  
  

• The AQI for Greenfield Town is in the category “Good”. This means that some citizens can be outside without side effects but others with troubles breathing and other health issues might have negative side effects.

  
  

Part A

You can reduce air pollution from transportation by using public transportation, (a)   , or walking instead of driving a (b)   . Carpooling with others and making sure your car is well-maintained to limit emissions are also good steps.

• flying
• hoverboarding
• biking
• car

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

Part B

How would choosing bike to ride versus a car help reduce air pollution?

Answer explanation

Choosing biking instead of a car helps reduce air pollution because bikes do not release harmful gases into the air, while cars burn fuel and produce emissions.