Effect of Air Pollutants on Health

The video discusses the health effects of various air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), ozone, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants, often resulting from human activities like burning fossil fuels, can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and lung cancer. Ground-level ozone, formed by photochemical reactions, contributes to smog and respiratory problems. Nitrogen oxides, primarily from vehicles and factories, are linked to bronchitis in children with asthma. Sulfur dioxide, from fossil fuel combustion, irritates the respiratory system. The video emphasizes the importance of reducing emissions through technologies like catalytic converters.

Which of the following is a common source of air pollutants like particulate matter and sulfur dioxide?

• Natural forest fires

• Oceanic evaporation

• Volcanic eruptions

• Burning of fossil fuels

What is the primary health risk associated with PM2.5 particles?

• Hearing loss

• Vision impairment

• Interference with lung gas exchange

• Skin irritation

How does ground-level ozone primarily form?

• Through volcanic activity

• By the decomposition of organic matter

• From oceanic evaporation

• By a photochemical reaction involving nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds

What is a significant health effect of long-term exposure to nitrogen oxides?

• Loss of taste

• Increased risk of skin cancer

• Development of bronchitis symptoms in children with asthma

• Hearing impairment

Which method can help reduce emissions of air pollutants from cars?

• Using leaded gasoline

• Installing catalytic converters

• Increasing engine size

• Driving at higher speeds