Air Pollution

Air pollution can be described as any contaminate of the atmosphere that disturbs the natural composition and chemistry of the air. This can be in the form of particulate matter such as dust, or excessive gases like carbon dioxide or other vapors. These pollutants can occur naturally, or are the product of human activities. The air that we breathe is filled with substances that are hazardous to our health. Some contaminates can be noticed because of an odor, where some cannot because they are odorless.

There are several types of pollution. Suspended particulate matter also known as PM, is a mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets. This type of pollution is made up of a number of components, including acids such as nitrates and sulfates, organic chemicals, carbon from combustion, metals, and soil, soot, or dust particles. These particles can be directly emitted from sources such as forest fires, or they can form when gases are emitted from power plants, industries and automobiles. Particle pollution contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing, decreased lung function; aggravated asthma, development of chronic bronchitis; irregular heartbeat. People with heart or lung diseases, children and older adults are the most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure. (Boorse, D. F., Wright, R.T.) (2011).

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas emitted from combustion processes. The majority of carbon monoxide em...

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... smog, can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and congestion. Diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma can be considerably worsened. Ground-level ozone also can reduce lung function and inflame the linings of the lungs, with prolonged exposure permanently scaring lung tissue.

To combat the pollution issue we face, steps can be taken to reduce exposure to air pollution. Ways this can be accomplished is by regulation of man-made pollution through legislation. The country can have set controls on pollution emissions for transportation vehicles and industry.

Works Cited

Boorse, D. F., Wright, R.T. (2011). Environmental science. Toward a sustainable future. Eleventh edition.

http://www.americanhomeinspectordirectory.com/radon-gas.html

http://www.epa.gov/lead/

http://www.radonseal.com/radon-indoor.htm