Top 10 Key Terms for Discussing Urban Air Quality Management

Top 10 Key Terms for Discussing Urban Air Quality Management 1. Particulate Matter (PM) Particulate Matter, or PM, refers to tiny particles suspended in the air. These particles can be solid or liquid and vary in size. PM is a major component of air pollution and can have detrimental effects on both human health and the environment. It is classified based on size, with PM2.5 and PM10 being of particular concern due to their ability to penetrate deep into our respiratory system. 2. Ozone (O3) While ozone in the stratosphere is beneficial, at ground level, it becomes a pollutant. Ground-level ozone is formed through complex chemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, often emitted by vehicles and industrial processes. High levels of ozone can cause respiratory issues and contribute to the formation of smog. 3. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Nitrogen Oxides, or NOx, are a group of highly reactive gases. They are primarily produced during combustion processes, such as those in vehicles and power plants. NOx not only contributes to the formation of smog and acid rain but also reacts with other pollutants to form secondary pollutants, such as ozone. 4. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, are carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature. They are released from various sources, including paints, solvents, and vehicle emissions. VOCs can have both short-term and long-term health effects, and they also play a significant role in the formation of ground-level ozone. 5. Acid Rain