Photochemical smog Flashcards
1
Q
Where do pollutants (nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and hydrocarbons) come from?
A
Burning fossil fuels, e.g. in vehicles and factories
2
Q
What happens when the pollutants come into contact with sunlight?
A
The UV lights causes them to break down into harmful chemicals (ozone) which form photochemical smog
3
Q
Give 3 examples of cities where photochemical smog is a problem
A
Los Angeles (USA) Beijing (China) Mexico City (Mexico)
4
Q
What can keep the pollutants at ground level?
A
Temperature inversions (a layer of warm air trapped below denser cooler air)
5
Q
What is photochemical smog linked to?
A
Health problems such as breathing difficulties, respiratory disorder and hedaches
