GCSE Chemistry (AQA)

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Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants

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Chemistry of the atmosphere Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources

Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants

5:15 Source and Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants
Spec 4.9.3.2
Previous Atmospheric Pollutants from Fuels Next Energy in Bonds
  • Atmospheric pollutants harm the environment and human health.
  • Power plants generate electricity by burning fossil fuels, releasing gases into the atmosphere.
  • Gases produced include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides.
  • Carbon particulates are also released with these gases.
  • Carbon monoxide is toxic, produced by incomplete combustion, and binds to hemoglobin, reducing oxygen in blood.
  • Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it hard to detect, hence the need for carbon monoxide alarms.
  • Carbon particulates cause health issues, such as lung irritation and breathing problems, and can lead to cancer and heart problems.
  • Carbon particulates contribute to global dimming, reducing sunlight and affecting plant growth.
  • Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides cause respiratory problems and can lead to asthma.
  • Nitrogen oxides can produce photochemical smog, causing severe asthma attacks or death.
  • Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides cause acid rain, which corrodes metals, damages limestone buildings, and disrupts pH levels in soils and water habitats.

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