7.1.1.3. SECONDARY POLLUTANTS

Ozone consists of oxygen molecules which contain three oxygen atoms. It is not emitted directly into the air but produced in the atmosphere when oxygen combines with oxygen radical (O�). Ozone protects us from ultra violet radiation and other harmful rays. It is observed that over the last few years, many manmade processes release gases into atmosphere causing drastic depletion of ozone layer. The chlorine atoms cause depletion of ozone slowly and holes are formed in the ozone layer. Ozone reacts with tissues and cause for breathing and decrease the working ability of the lungs, chest pains and coughing. It lowers the human body resistance power and leads to cold; pneumonia also. Antarctic Ozone depletion: According to NIMBUS-7 satellite picture which was taken on 5th October, 1987 the protective ozone layer showed a hole over 50% of the area of the Antarctica continent covering 7 million sq km. On Jan 1st 1989, the country Montreal (Canada) proposed redesigning refrigeration, air conditioning technology replacing the use of CFCs by ozone friendly substitutes.

Ozone is a special form of oxygen that has three oxygen atoms instead of the usual two. It forms in the atmosphere when oxygen molecules interact with sunlight. This ozone layer is crucial for life on Earth because it absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Unfortunately, human activities have led to the release of gases, such as CFCs, that damage the ozone layer, creating holes that can allow dangerous UV rays to reach the surface. Over time, exposure to these rays can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems and a weakened immune system. For example, the Antarctic ozone depletion was so severe that satellites showed a significant hole in the ozone layer in 1987, prompting international action to phase out harmful substances.

Think of the ozone layer as a protective sunscreen for the Earth. Just as sunscreen shields our skin from harmful UV rays while allowing us to enjoy the sun safely, the ozone layer protects our planet from the sun's stronger rays. If this sunscreen wears off, like the ozone layer is depleting, we become vulnerable to sunburns and skin damage, which can lead to serious health issues.

Ozone reacts with tissues and cause for breathing and decrease the working ability of the lungs, chest pains and coughing. It lowers the human body resistance power and leads to cold; pneumonia also.

When ozone levels increase due to pollutants and depletion occurs, it can cause adverse health effects. High concentrations of ozone irritate the lungs and can reduce lung function, making it hard to breathe, causing chest pain, and leading to coughing. Prolonged exposure reduces immunity, increasing the risk of respiratory infections such as colds and pneumonia. This explains why areas with high levels of ozone pollution often report more respiratory issues among their residents.

Imagine trying to breathe while running in a smoky, polluted room. The irritants in the air would make it difficult for your lungs to function properly, similar to how ozone pollution affects lung health. Just like we try to avoid smokey environments to protect our breathing, we must be aware of the ozone levels in our environment to protect our health.

Smog is a combination of smoke and fog or various gases when react in the presence of sunlight. The effects of smog on human health cause for respiratory, irritation to the eyes, diseases related to nose, throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, headache, nerves, liver, and kidneys. The first smog related deaths were recorded in London in 1873, when it killed 500 people. In 1892, December, London had worst experiences causing 1000 deaths. In 1940’s severe smog began covering the cities of Los Angeles in USA.

Smog forms when smoke from fires, industrial emissions, or car exhaust combines with fog and sunlight, leading to a thick haze. This haze can seriously harm health by irritating the respiratory system and causing various diseases, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Historical examples, like the London smogs in the late 19th century, show how deadly smog can be, resulting in hundreds of deaths due to respiratory distress.

Consider a time when you walked through a thick fog and found it hard to see. Now imagine that this fog is mixed with smoke from cars and factories. Just as that fog blocks your view, smog blocks clean air and can make breathing difficult, much like how wearing a mask would help in polluted environments.

Acid rain has become one of the most important global environmental problems and poses significant adverse impact on soils, rivers, lakes, forests and monuments. The phenomenon occurs when SOx and NOx from the burning of fossil fuels such as Petrol, Diesel, Coat etc combine with water vapour in atmosphere and fall as rain or snow or fog. Natural sources like volcanoes, forest fires, etc also contribute SOx and NOx. Increased urban and industrial activities cause air pollution resulting in the rise of concentration of SO and NOx. Sulphur dioxide and NO combine with water vapour in the atmosphere produce sulphuric acid and Nitric acid respectively and results acid rain. Some of the examples are: Europe and parts of W Asia have experienced rain with water pH range of 4.5 to 5.0 (acidic) in 1958.

Acid rain is a significant environmental issue caused by sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) released from burning fossil fuels. These gases combine with moisture in the atmosphere to form acids, which can then fall as rain, snow, or fog with a lower pH, meaning it's more acidic. This type of precipitation can harm various ecosystems, soil health, and even structures like monuments by corroding them. Regions like Europe experienced dangerously acidic rain, indicating how widespread and impactful acid rain can be.

Think of acid rain like a strong lemonade spill on a picnic table. Just like the acidity in lemonade can cause wood to warp or corrode over time, acid rain can damage forests, rivers, and even buildings, showcasing the importance of maintaining a clean environment to protect our shared spaces.

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