Vehicles emit a major air pollution consisting of:a)Leadb)Ammoniac)Irond)SulphurCorrect answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Historic major sources of lead air emissions were motor vehicles and industrial sources. Motor-vehicle emissions have been reduced by the phasing out of leaded gasoline, but lead is still used in general-aviation gasoline for piston-engine aircraft.

Answer

Motor vehicles also emit pollutants, predominantly carbon dioxide, that contribute to global climate change.

Answer

Lead: A Major Air Pollutant Emitted by Vehicles

Introduction:
Vehicles are one of the major contributors to air pollution, emitting various pollutants into the atmosphere. Among these pollutants, lead is a significant component that poses serious health and environmental risks. Lead emissions primarily result from the combustion of leaded gasoline, which was previously widely used in vehicles. In this answer, we will explore why lead is considered a major air pollutant emitted by vehicles.

Lead in gasoline:
1. Historical context:
- In the past, leaded gasoline was commonly used due to its ability to prevent engine knocking.
- However, it was later discovered that leaded gasoline releases toxic lead particles into the air during combustion.

2. Harmful effects of lead:
- Lead is a potent neurotoxin that can negatively affect the human nervous system, particularly in children.
- It can lead to developmental delays, reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.
- Lead exposure is also harmful to adults, affecting their cardiovascular system, kidneys, and reproductive health.

Lead emissions from vehicles:
1. Combustion process:
- When leaded gasoline is burned in the engine, lead particles are released through the exhaust system.
- These particles become airborne and contribute to ambient air pollution.

2. Phased-out usage:
- Many countries have phased out the use of leaded gasoline due to its detrimental health effects.
- However, in some regions where leaded gasoline is still used, vehicles continue to emit lead particles.

3. Vehicle exhaust control:
- The introduction of catalytic converters in vehicles has significantly reduced the emission of other pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
- However, catalytic converters are not effective in reducing lead emissions.

Health and environmental impacts:
1. Health risks:
- Inhalation of lead particles can lead to lead poisoning, causing severe health problems as mentioned earlier.
- Children and individuals living near busy roads are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure from vehicle emissions.

2. Environmental consequences:
- Lead particles emitted by vehicles contribute to air pollution, which can have far-reaching environmental impacts.
- These particles can settle on soil and water surfaces, contaminating them and posing risks to plants, animals, and ecosystems.

Conclusion:
Lead is a major air pollutant emitted by vehicles, primarily due to the combustion of leaded gasoline. Its toxic nature and harmful effects on human health and the environment make it crucial to continue efforts to phase out leaded gasoline and reduce lead emissions from vehicles.

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