Question

Statement-1 : Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is an
important pollutant released by diesel vehicles.
Statement-2 : Catalytic converters greatly reduce pollution
caused by automobiles.

Answer 1

Both the statements are correct.

Explanation:

• Suspended particulate matter is a major pollutant released from the internal combustion engines of vehicles due to the combustion of fuel like diesel for energy production. It is comprised of:

1. Dust particles of coal which are about 100 micrometer in diameter.
2. Fumes of zinc or lead oxides which are suspended solids and are less then 1 micrometer in diameter.
3. Mist of sulphuric acid which are suspended liquid and are less than 2 micrometer in diameter.
4. Smoke, formed due to the incomplete combustion of coal and are solid particles 0.05 to 1 micrometer in diameter.
5. Aerosols which are suspended liquid and solid particles, less than 1 micrometer in diameter.

• Catalytic converters are devices attached to the combustion engines of automobiles. They are responsible for converting the toxic components like nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide,  carbon monoxide released from the combustion engine into harmless gases by the process of oxidation and reduction. Hence, they are capable of reducing pollution.