[Chemistry Class Notes] on Air Pollution Pdf for Exam

Air pollution is essentially the existence of an excessive amount of harmful substances that are present in the atmosphere of the earth. One of the primary sources of air pollution is specific gases like ammonia, carbon monoxide, methane, and CFC amongst others. Air pollution can be described as a modification in the air quality which is characterised by biological or physical pollutants, and chemical measurements in the air. It is the rise in the proportion of some specific constituents or the presence of impurities in the atmosphere. 

Causes of Air Pollution

Air pollution is majorly caused by the presence of toxic substances in the atmosphere and it is largely produced by human activities. Air pollution can also be caused sometimes by natural phenomena like dust storms, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions deteriorating air quality. 

Sources of Air Pollution

There are various sources of air pollution. They are as follows.

1. Emission from Industries and Factories: The factories and industries release massive amounts of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, chemicals plus other organic compounds in the air that results in the contamination of the air.

2. Fossil Fuel Combustion: Fossil fuels like coal and oil are combusted for electricity and transportation on road produces air pollutants such as nitrogen and sulphur di-oxide. 

3. Waste Production: It is usually caused by methane generation in landfills. 

4. Agricultural Activities: The fertilisers, insecticides, and pesticides are utilized for agricultural activities that can emit harmful chemicals in the environment. 

Types of Air Pollution

The types of air pollution can be mainly divided into natural sources and artificial sources.

Natural Sources: The natural sources of air pollution are chemicals like sulphur, ash, and chlorine which is released from volcanic eruptions, fires in the forest, methane combustion caused by animal digestion such as cattle. 

Human-made Sources: The main reason behind artificial sources contributing to air pollution is due to the combustion of some specific fuels. The majority of industrial sources burn fuel using heating devices and the waste gets into the air. The major human-made sources of air pollution are free sources such as automobiles, planes, and water transportation. 

Consequences of Air Pollution

1. Effects on the environment: Air pollution has a big impact on plant evolution as it prevents photosynthesis in various cases. It also has an impact on air purification and can lead to acid rain, snow, fog, and frost which are mainly caused by the combustion of fossil fuels. 

2. Global warming: Global warming is mainly caused by climate change. The presence of greenhouse gases provides benefits to the planet however the concentration of these gases in excess amounts results in climate change and global warming. 

3. Impact on human health: Air pollutants cause severe health risks even when they are present in small quantities. The main causes of the air pollutants are mercury, lead, benzene, and dioxins. 

Prevention of Air Pollution

There are various ways in which we can control and stop air pollution. We can use clean and renewable fuel sources for energy production. Conservation of energy is another important concept in the prevention of air pollution. Eco-friendly transportation in the form of hydrogen and electric vehicles is an effective way of reducing pollution. And finally, the construction of green buildings gives structures that are resource-efficient plus responsible for reducing the carbon footprint.