Cambridge O Level Chemistry · Syllabus 5070 · Chemistry of the Environment
Air Pollutant
What is Air Pollutant?
A substance released into the atmosphere that has an adverse effect on health or the environment. Six are studied at this level: carbon dioxide from complete combustion of carbon-containing fuels; carbon monoxide and particulates from incomplete combustion; methane from decomposition of vegetation and waste gases from animal digestion; oxides of nitrogen from car engines; and sulfur dioxide from combustion of fossil fuels containing sulfur compounds.
This definition is part of the Chemistry of the Environment chapter in Cambridge O Level Chemistry.
Questions students ask about Air Pollutant
What is the source and effect of each of the six air pollutants?
Carbon dioxide comes from complete combustion of carbon-containing fuels and causes global warming. Carbon monoxide and particulates come from incomplete combustion; carbon monoxide is toxic and particulates increase respiratory problems and cancer risk. Methane comes from decomposing vegetation and animal digestion and also causes global warming. Oxides of nitrogen form in car engines and cause acid rain and photochemical smog. Sulfur dioxide comes from burning fossil fuels containing sulfur and causes acid rain.