Types of Air Chemicals
Air contains a variety of chemicals, both naturally occurring and man-made. Some of the most common air chemicals include:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas produced through respiration and combustion. It is also a major component of greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to climate change.
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Nitrogen oxides are a group of air pollutants that are primarily emitted from combustion sources such as vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes. These pollutants can lead to smog, acid rain, and other environmental problems.
Ozone (O3): Ozone is a form of oxygen that occurs naturally in the upper atmosphere. It is also created when nitrogen oxides react with other chemicals in the presence of sunlight. Ozone can be harmful to human health and is a major component of smog.
Particulate Matter (PM): Particulate matter is a type of air pollutant that includes a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets. PM can be emitted from combustion sources, construction activities, and other industrial processes. It can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are a group of chemicals that are released into the air from various sources including gasoline, paints, solvents, and cleaning products. VOCs can be harmful to human health and can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone.
