Question

Describe the major sources of air pollution.

Hint:

Air pollution is mostly man-made, caused by industries, vehicles, and fossil fuels. Reducing emissions and adopting renewable energy are key solutions.

Answer 1

Air pollution refers to the contamination of the atmosphere by harmful gases, smoke, dust, and chemical particles, which adversely affect human health, plants, animals, and the environment. The sources of air pollution can be classified into natural and human-made (anthropogenic).
Major Sources of Air Pollution:
1. Industrial Emissions:
- Factories release large amounts of smoke, carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO$_2$), nitrogen oxides (NO$_x$), and suspended particulate matter (SPM).
- Thermal power plants burning coal are a major contributor to air pollution.
2. Vehicular Pollution:
- Automobiles emit pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, lead, and nitrogen oxides.
- In urban areas, traffic congestion significantly increases the concentration of harmful gases.
3. Burning of Fossil Fuels:
- Use of coal, petroleum, and natural gas in industries, households, and power generation releases carbon dioxide (CO$_2$), methane (CH$_4$), and particulate matter.
- This is the primary cause of greenhouse gases and global warming.
4. Agricultural Activities:
- Excessive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and burning of crop residues release ammonia, methane, and smoke into the air.
5. Domestic Sources:
- Burning of wood, cow dung cakes, and coal in rural households contributes to indoor as well as outdoor air pollution.
6. Natural Sources:
- Dust storms, volcanic eruptions, and forest fires also release smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Though natural, these still contribute to air pollution.
Conclusion:
Air pollution is mainly caused by human activities such as industrialization, urbanization, and transport, but natural processes also add to it. Tackling air pollution requires strict laws, adoption of clean technologies, renewable energy, and public awareness.