Section 2

Air QualityPages 20-23

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9BA6fFGMjI

Air PollutionPollutants – harmful substances in

the air, water, or soilThe respiratory system (nose,

throat, lungs) is most affected by air pollution.

Most air pollution is the result of burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, gasoline, and diesel fuel.

Particles in the AirFrom Natural Sources

evaporation of salt water the wind blows mold and plant pollen

forest fires soil erosion dust stormserupting volcanoes

Particles in the Air

From Human Activitiesburning fuels such as wood and coalfarming and construction release soil particles into the air

Photochemical Smog Smog – the brown haze that forms

in cities; caused by the action of sunlight on chemicals

chemicals + sunlight = smog

Acid Rain Rain is naturally slightly acidic, but some

contains more acid than normal and is known as acid rain.

How does rain become more acidic? 1. Burning coal that contains a lot of

nitrogen and sulfur produces nitrogen and sulfur oxides.

2. The oxides combine with water in the air to form nitric and sulfuric acids.

3. Precipitation carries these particles from the air to the surface of our Earth.

Improving Air QualityPollution control devices are required on all cars.

Factories and power plants must install filters, called scrubbers, in smokestacks to remove pollutants from smoke.

Improving Air QualityWith more cars, factories, and other

sources of air pollution than ever before, many people think that stricter laws and regulations to control air pollution may be needed.

Some people think the stricter laws may not be worth the extra costs.

What do you think?

Words Worth KnowingContinue your list on ISN #2…

pollutantsphotochemical smogacid rain

Questions for you…How can we discover what is in the

air in our environment?

Think about your home, is there anything that filters air in your home?

What particles do you think an air pollution detector might trap?

Air Pollution Detector

Objective: To make a pollution detector to check for dirt, dust, or other particles that might be in the air in and around school.

Supplies1 sheet of wax paper

(approximately 30 cm x 20cm)

1 piece of construction paper

String 45 cm in lengthHole punchGluePetroleum jelly (Vasoline)