This topic explains what air pollutants are, their major sources, and their harmful effects on the environment and human health.
Definition
Pollutant
Anything that is in the air, water, or soil which has a harmful effect on some part of the environment is called a pollutant.
Simple explanation: A pollutant is any substance that harms the environment.
Air Pollutant
Air pollutants are substances in the air that have a negative impact on the environment.
Simple explanation: Air pollutants are harmful substances in the air.
Main Idea
- Industrial wastes
- Herbicides, pesticides, insecticides
- Particles of dust and smoke
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Sulphur dioxide
- Ozone
- Lead-containing paints
These things have a negative impact on the environment. Such substances affect the environment as a result of human activity.
Pollutants damage the environment, health, and quality of life.
Simple explanation: Air pollutants come from human activities and harm both the environment and our health.
Core Concept
Important Air Pollutants
The book discusses the following important air pollutants:
- Sulphur oxides (SO₂)
- Oxides of nitrogen (NO, NO₂)
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Methane (CH₄)
- Ground-level ozone (O₃)
