Question

Differentiate between chemical and photochemical smog

Answer 1

Both industrial smog and photochemical smog are forms of air pollution. Although both appear to the eye as yellow-brown haze, they differ in two key ways: chemistry and composition. Industrial smog typically exists in urban areas where factories burn fossil fuels such as coal, which creates smoke and sulfur dioxide that mix with fog droplets to create a thick blanket of haze close to the ground. Photochemical smog occurs in drier, sunny areas and forms because of increased usage of all fossil fuels, including gasoline, and the burning of trees and organic waste. These emissions combine in the presence of sunlight to create a noxious environment, which can be harmful to human health. According to the National Institutes of Heath, both industrial smog and photochemical smog can create major health risks, including asthma, lung tissue damage, bronchial infections and heart problems.