Question 1: Atmospheric pollutants are substances in the air that can harm the environment, human health, or both. They originate from natural sources and human activities such as industry, transportation, and agriculture. Understanding these pollutants helps in developing strategies to reduce air pollution.

Answer: Atmospheric pollutants are harmful substances in the air from natural and human sources that damage the environment or health.

Question 1: Define 'Particulate Matter' and explain why it is considered a pollutant.

Answer: Particulate Matter refers to tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air that can cause health problems and environmental damage.

Question 2: Which of the following is NOT a common atmospheric pollutant? A) Carbon Dioxide B) Sulfur Dioxide C) Methane D) Ozone

Answer:

Question 1: Describe how the combustion of fossil fuels releases sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere.

Answer: Fossil fuel combustion releases sulfur dioxide when sulfur compounds in fuels are oxidized during burning.

Question 2: Fill in the blank: The main human activity contributing to the release of nitrogen oxides is __________.

Answer: vehicle combustion

Question 1: Long Answer (6 marks): Explain how ground-level ozone forms and discuss its effects on human health and ecosystems.

Answer: Ground-level ozone forms when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in the presence of sunlight. It can cause respiratory problems, aggravate asthma, and damage crops and forests.

Question 1: Calculate the concentration in ppm of sulfur dioxide if 0.05 grams are present in 1 cubic meter of air. (Atomic mass of sulfur = 32 g/mol, volume of molar gas at STP = 22.4 L).

Answer: 0.05 g / 32 g/mol = 0.0015625 mol; 1 m^3 = 1000 L; concentration = (0.0015625 mol / 1000 L) * 10^6 ppm = 15.625 ppm.

Question 2: Identify two safety precautions that should be taken when handling sulfur dioxide in a laboratory setting.

Answer: Use proper ventilation or fume hoods, and wear protective gloves and goggles.

Question 1: Describe how catalytic converters reduce nitrogen oxides emissions from vehicles.

Answer: Catalytic converters convert nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and oxygen gases using catalysts, reducing harmful emissions from vehicle exhaust.

Question 2: Explain the role of scrubbers in industrial smokestacks and how they contribute to pollution control.

Answer: Scrubbers are devices that remove pollutants like sulfur dioxide from industrial emissions by using a liquid, typically water with added chemicals, to absorb or neutralize the gases before they are released into the atmosphere, thereby reducing air pollution.