air pollution, definition of

Air pollution occurs when the air contains gases, dust, fumes or odour in harmful amounts. That is, amounts which could be harmful to the health or comfort of humans and animals or which could cause damage to plants and materials.

The substances that cause air pollution are called pollutants. Pollutants that are pumped into our atmosphere and directly pollute the air are called primary pollutants. Primary pollutant examples include carbon monoxide from car exhausts and sulfur dioxide from the combustion of coal.

Further pollution can arise if primary pollutants in the atmosphere undergo chemical reactions. The resulting compounds are called secondary pollutants. Photochemical smog is an example of this.

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• US coal power plants killed at least 460,000 people in past 20 years – report
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• China continues coal spree despite climate goals
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• Sadiq Khan in U-turn on ‘eco’ wood-burners amid pollution fears
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• What can you do in your own home to improve air quality?
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Related Tags: pollution, environment