Knowledge Check #5

Front

What is Photochemical Smog?

Back

A type of air pollution that occurs when sunlight reacts with pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to the formation of ozone and other harmful substances.

Front

What are the main precursors to Photochemical Smog production?

Back

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the main precursors, while sulfur dioxide (SO2) is NOT a precursor.

Front

What happens to nitrogen oxide (NO) and free oxygen (O) molecules in the absence of VOCs?

Back

They bind back together to re-form nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

Front

Which method of pollution releases the most air pollutants?

Back

Coal combustion releases more air pollutants than any other method.

Front

What is thermal inversion?

Back

A meteorological phenomenon where a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants near the Earth's surface.

Front

How does thermal inversion affect air quality?

Back

It prevents pollutants from escaping upward, leading to increased concentrations of air pollutants near the surface.

Front

What is the role of VOCs in the formation of ozone?

Back

VOCs react with nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight to produce ozone, a key component of photochemical smog.

Front

What are the environmental impacts of coal combustion?

Back

Coal combustion releases a significant amount of air pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, contributing to smog and respiratory issues.

Front

What is an El Niño event?

Back

A climate pattern characterized by weakened trade winds and warmer sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

Front

What are the effects of El Niño on global weather patterns?

Back

El Niño can lead to increased precipitation in some regions, such as the western coast of South America, and droughts in others, like Australia and Southeast Asia.