differentiate between the primary and secondary pollutants. explain how these pollutants are harmful for humans and environment in about 250 words.
Hello,
Primary pollution are emitted directly from a source, which can be natural (volcanic eruptions or fires, for example) or of anthropogenic origin (carbon monoxide from vehicles). SOme examples are Carbon monoxide (CO), Sulfur dioxide (SO2, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Ammonia (NH3), Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formed by hydrocarbons in a gaseous state at room temperature, Particles in suspension (PM), constituted by dust, pollen, ashes, metallic particles, etc.
on the other hand Secondary pollutants, are not emitted directly rather its origin lies in the interactions between the primary emissions in the atmosphere. An example is Tropospheric ozone or “bad ozone” is formed by the interaction of various precursors (volatile organic compounds, CO, NOx, etc.) in the presence of sunlight.
People exposed to these pollution may suffer from Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat , Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulties, Worsening of existing lung and heart problems, such as asth, Increased risk of heart attack.
air pollution can cause a variety of environmental effects like Acid rain, haxe, wildfires, etc