Air Pollution Flashcard 2025

Front

What is photochemical smog?

Back

A type of air pollution formed when sunlight reacts with pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides, leading to harmful ozone at ground level.

Front

How can we reduce photochemical smog?

Back

By improving gas mileage and reducing emissions from vehicles.

Front

What are the health effects of 'bad' ozone?

Back

Respiratory problems such as asthma and other lung diseases.

Front

What is PM2.5?

Back

Particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometers or smaller, which can lodge deeply in the respiratory tract and cause health issues.

Front

What is the Clean Air Act (1970)?

Back

A U.S. federal law that regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources and identifies six pollutants that threaten human health and the environment.

Front

What are the six pollutants identified by the Clean Air Act?

Back

Carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide.

Front

What is the primary source of nitrogen oxides (NOx)?

Back

Combustion processes, especially in vehicles and power plants.

Front

What is the role of the ozone layer?

Back

To protect the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Front

What are the effects of sound pollution on marine life?

Back

It can cause stress and disrupt communication and navigation among marine organisms.

Front

What is ground-level ozone?

Back

A harmful air pollutant formed by the reaction of sunlight with pollutants like VOCs and NOx, contributing to smog.