QUESTION: Which of the following is not an air pollutant?
A Carbon monoxide
B Sulphur dioxide
C Nitrogen
D Nitrogen oxide
ANSWER: Nitrogen
| Air Pollutant | Chemical Formula | Source of emission | Effects |
| Nitrogen Dioxide | NO2 | · Vehicle emissions · Industrial combustion · Power plants | · Respiratory problems · Aggravation of asthma · Decreased lung function · Smog formation |
| Sulfur Dioxide | SO2 | · Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil) · Industrial processes | · Respiratory problems · Acid rain formation · Damage to plants and aquatic life |
| Carbon Monoxide | CO | · Vehicle emissions · Incomplete combustion | · Impaired oxygen transport · Headaches · Fatigue · Cardiovascular issues |
| Ozone | O3 | · Photochemical reactions involving precursor pollutants (nox, vocs) | · Respiratory problems · Decreased lung function · Aggravation of asthma · Crop damage |
| Volatile Organic Compounds | Various | · Vehicle emissions · Industrial processes · Solvents · Paints | · Air toxics · Contribute to smog formation · Respiratory problems · Cancer risk |
| Lead | Pb | · Historical gasoline additives · Industrial processes | · Neurological damage · Developmental issues in children · Cardiovascular effects |
| Mercury | Hg | · Burning fossil fuels · Industrial processes · Waste incineration | · Neurological damage, developmental issues in children · Contamination of aquatic systems |
| Ammonia | NH3 | · Agriculture (fertilizer use) · Livestock · Industrial processes | · Air and water pollution contribution to particulate matter · Ecosystem damage |
| Radon | Rn | · Natural sources (soil, rocks) | · Lung cancer risk · Especially in indoor environments with high concentrations. |
| Formaldehyde | HCHO | · Combustion processes · Industrial emissions · Building materials | · Respiratory irritation · Carcinogenic effects · Indoor air quality concerns |
| Particulate Matter | – | · Combustion processes (vehicles, industrial processes) · Construction activities · Agriculture | · Respiratory issues · Cardiovascular diseases · Reduced visibility · Haze · Environmental degradation |