Which one of the following is secondary pollutant?a)Carbon Monoxideb)H...
Understanding Secondary Pollutants
Pollutants in the atmosphere are generally categorized into primary and secondary pollutants.
Primary Pollutants
- Primary pollutants are directly emitted from a source.
- Examples include:
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Hydrocarbons
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
What are Secondary Pollutants?
- Secondary pollutants are not emitted directly. Instead, they form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants.
- A key example of a secondary pollutant is ozone (O3).
Why is Ozone Considered a Secondary Pollutant?
- Ozone is formed when sunlight triggers reactions between VOCs and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere.
- This process occurs in the presence of sunlight, primarily during warm months, leading to the formation of ground-level ozone.
Impact of Ozone
- Ozone can have harmful effects on human health, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues.
- It also negatively impacts vegetation and ecosystems, contributing to reduced agricultural yields.
Conclusion
In summary, among the options provided, ozone is classified as a secondary pollutant due to its formation from the reaction of other pollutants in the atmosphere, distinguishing it from the other options which are primary pollutants. Understanding this distinction is crucial in addressing air quality and pollution control strategies.