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9. Passage (ESS3-3)

Proposed method to save energy and reduce pollution
Person X
Use 50% less fuel combustion motors
Person Y
Use less waste disposal sites

–Can we do anything extra to further reduce pollution than what the above person did?

QUESTION: How does the use of oil and other fossil fuels relate to pollution?

QUESTION: What are the natural causes of air pollution?

Question: How do automobiles pollute the air?

1 answer

Question 1: How does the use of oil and other fossil fuels relate to pollution?

The use of oil and other fossil fuels contributes to pollution primarily through the combustion process, which releases various harmful emissions into the atmosphere. When fossil fuels are burned for energy or transportation, they emit carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These pollutants can contribute to the formation of smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems in humans. CO2, in particular, is a significant greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change. Additionally, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels can lead to spills and habitat destruction, further exacerbating environmental degradation.

Question 2: What are the natural causes of air pollution?

Natural causes of air pollution include:

  1. Volcanic Eruptions: Release large amounts of ash and sulfur dioxide gas into the atmosphere.
  2. Wildfires: Produce smoke and particulate matter that can degrade air quality.
  3. Dust Storms: Create clouds of dust that can travel long distances and impact air quality.
  4. Biological Processes: Naturally occurring processes like decomposition emit various gases such as methane and ammonia.
  5. Ocean Emissions: The ocean can release dimethyl sulfide, contributing to the formation of clouds and influencing climate patterns.

Question 3: How do automobiles pollute the air?

Automobiles pollute the air through the combustion of gasoline or diesel fuel in their engines. This process releases various pollutants, including:

  1. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas that is harmful to human health, produced by incomplete combustion.
  2. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Contribute to smog and acid rain, resulting from the high temperatures in internal combustion engines.
  3. Hydrocarbons (HC): Unburned fuel that can contribute to ground-level ozone formation.
  4. Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles that can penetrate the lungs and affect respiratory health, often released from diesel engines.
  5. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

These emissions can lead to various environmental and health problems, including respiratory diseases, environmental degradation, and climate change. Reducing automobile use or shifting to cleaner alternatives (like electric vehicles) can help mitigate this pollution.