Question

Discuss the causes and harmful effects of the following air pollutants
1. Carbon monoxide
2. Sulphur dioxide
3. Oxides of nitrogen

Answer 1

1. Carbon Monoxide (CO): Carbon Monoxide is a highly toxic and dangerous pollutant, infamous for its lack of identifying color and smell. At one point, this gas was extremely prevalent in homes for use in domestic heating before it was found to be unsuitable, and it has since been replaced by much safer solutions such as natural gasand electricity. However, this gas is far from extinct in human use.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Sulfur Dioxide is a substance most closely associated with the steam age and locomotives, as the biggest culprit in its production is coal combustion. However, these days are not so far gone as you may have thought.The main effect of breathing in raised levels of nitrogen dioxide is the increased likelihood of respiratory problems. Nitrogen dioxide inflames the lining of the lungs, and it can reduce immunity to lung infections. This can cause problems such as wheezing, coughing, colds, flu and bronchitis.

Increased levels of nitrogen dioxide can have significant impacts on people with asthma because it can cause more frequent and more intense attacks. Children with asthma and older people with heart disease are most at risk.

Answer 2

• Carbon monoxide - it is formed due to the incomplete combustion of the fuel. It pollutes the air.


• Sulphur dioxide - It is formed due to the sulphur impurities in the fuel burn. It jams our circulatery system.


• Oxides of nitrogen - It is formed from the heat and pressure found in a car engine. It cause breathing problem.