Coal Combustion Air Pollutants
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1. Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
2. Nitrogen oxides (NOx)
3. Particulate matter (PM)
4. Mercury (Hg)
What is a primary pollutant?
A primary pollutant is a pollutant that is emitted directly into the atmosphere from a specific source, such as a car or a factory. These pollutants can have harmful effects on human health and the environment. Examples of primary pollutants include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide.
What is a secondary pollutant? Give 3 examples.
A secondary pollutant is a pollutant that forms in the atmosphere through chemical reactions between primary pollutants and other substances. These reactions can occur from pollutants interacting with sunlight, water, or other compounds in the air. Three examples of secondary pollutants include:
1. Ozone (O3) - forms through the reaction of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight.
2. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) - forms through the reaction of sulfur dioxide and water vapor in the atmosphere.
3. Nitric acid (HNO3) - forms through the reaction of nitrogen oxides with water vapor and other pollutants in the air.