Industrial Chemistry and Environmental Pollution

24.1 Pollution Pollution is the introduction of harmful substances into the environment. Major types: Air pollution Water pollution Soil pollution Noise pollution 24.2 Air Pollutants Common air pollutants: CO (Carbon monoxide): produced from incomplete combustion; toxic. SO₂ (Sulfur dioxide): from burning fossil fuels; causes acid rain. NOx (Nitrogen oxides): from vehicle engines; causes acid rain & smog. CO₂: greenhouse gas → global warming. Particulates: dust, soot. 24.3 Greenhouse Effect & Global Warming Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere: CO₂ CH₄ (methane) N₂O Water vapor Effects: Rising sea levels Extreme weather Climate change 24.4 Acid Rain Caused by SO₂ and NOx reacting with water: SO₂ + O₂ + H₂O → H₂SO₄ NO₂ + H₂O → HNO₃ Effects: Damages buildings & monuments Kills fish & aquatic life Harms plants & soil 24.5 Ozone Layer & Ozone Depletion Ozone (O₃) absorbs harmful UV radiation. CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) break down ozone: CFCl₃ → Cl· radical → destroys O₃ Effects: Skin cancer Cataracts Damage to marine life