Many chemical substances can cause air pollution. Following this article will introduce five most common chemical pollutants in the air.
First, carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a kind of colorless, tasteless, odorless, flammable and poisonous gas. It is the product from the incomplete combustion of carbonic fuel. In the high-altitude city or cold environment, the pollution caused by carbon monoxide is very serious.
Second, nitrogen oxides
Nitrogen oxides mainly refer to nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), most of which come from the high-temperature combustion of fossil fuels. Nitric oxide is relatively harmless, but when it is rapidly oxidized by the ozone in the air, it will change into nitrogen dioxide. The combustion of nitrogen-containing (such as coal) and nitrogen-containing chemicals can also directly release out nitrogen dioxide. Generally speaking, the emission of motor vehicle is one of the major sources of nitrogen oxides in the city.
Third, ozone
Ozone is the representative pollutant of photochemical smog. When the nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons in the air receive strong sunlight, they will go through a series of complex chemical reactions, and then the ozone will be formed and accumulated. Although the ozone at upper stratosphere has an important effect of radiation protection on the creature on the earth, however, the ozone at low altitude is a kind of harmful pollutant.
Fourth, hydrocarbons
The hydrocarbons in the nature mainly come from the decomposition of the creature, such as methane and ethylene. Methane is an inert gas, which will not cause the hazard of photochemical pollution; while the photochemical activity of ethylene is much stronger. What’s more, it will also produce formaldehyde, which will irritate the eyes. The artificial emission of hydrocarbons mainly comes from the incomplete combustion and evaporation of volatile organic compounds. Most hydrocarbon components have no harm on human health, but they can lead to the formation of photochemical smog.
Fifth, lead
Lead can enter into human body through the air, food and water. It can also attach to dust particles and store in the blood, bones and soft tissues. Lead can cause serious kidney diseases, liver diseases, neurological diseases and other organ problems. In addition, it can also lead to psychological disorders, convulsions and mental retardation. In particular, it is much more harmful to children. Like other heavy metals, lead can also penetrate into the plants, so people must be very careful when burning the leaves, because this dangerous toxin may be emitted back into the air through the combustion. BOLA TANGKAS