Topic 6: Atmosphere IB ESS

Front

Define secondary pollutants.

Back

Secondary pollutants are formed when primary pollutants undergo a variety of reactions with other chemicals.

Front

Define primary pollutants.

Back

Primary pollutants are emitted directly from the process.

Front

Identify the characteristics of urban areas with high levels of photochemical smog.

Back

Urban areas with high levels of photochemical smog are located in a basin or surrounded by mountains, have calm winds, dry weather, sunny conditions, and many industries and vehicles.

Front

Which is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the impact of sulfur dioxide emissions from smokestacks?

Back

Sulfur dioxide emissions contribute to acid rain, which can harm the environment.

Front

What are the main components of the atmosphere?

Back

The main components of the atmosphere include nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), argon (0.93%), and carbon dioxide (0.04%).

Front

What is photochemical smog?

Back

Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution that is formed when sunlight reacts with pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Front

What role do trees play in urban air quality?

Back

Trees improve urban air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, as well as filtering pollutants from the air.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?

Back

VOCs are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution and smog formation.