Which of the following is secondary pollutant?
Correct answer: C. PAN
- A. CO
- B. SO2
- C. PAN
- D. NO2
Explanation
A secondary pollutant is a pollutant that is not emitted directly into the atmosphere but is formed through chemical reactions in the air. It is derived from primary pollutants that are emitted directly from a source. Among the options you mentioned, ozone (O3) is a secondary pollutant. It is formed through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. Ozone is a harmful pollutant when present at ground level, contributing to smog and respiratory issues.Primary pollutants are those which are emitted directly from their sources. Examples of primary pollutants are oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, carbon monoxide, ammonia, hydrocarbons, ammonia, compounds of fluorine and radioactive materials. Secondary pollutants are either formed by the atmospheric transformation of primary pollutants or other chemical compounds. Examples of secondary pollutants are carbonic acid, hydrofluoric acid, sulphuric acid, ozone, aldehydes and ketones, peroxybenzol and PeroxyAcetyl Nitrate (PAN). Therefore, option C is correct.Option A, B and D are incorrect because as stated above, they are all examples of primary pollutants.
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Atmospheric pollution includes smog, acid rain, greenhouse gases, ozone depletion and the effects of carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Water pollution covers sewage, industrial waste, eutrophication and treatment stages, while green chemistry focuses on reducing hazardous substances, waste and energy use through safer, more efficient processes.
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