The Earth is surrounded by a blanket of air (made up of various gases) called the atmosphere. The atmosphere helps protect the Earth and allow life to exist. Without it, we would be burned by the intense heat of the sun during the day or frozen by the very low temperatures at night.
Any additional gas, particles or odors that are introduced into the air (either by nature or human activity) to distort this natural balance and cause harm to living things can be called air pollution. There are also things called pollutants, which are things that pollute the air.
The cause?
Air pollution is caused by many things. One of the causes of air pollution is nature. Volcanoes emit large amounts of sulfur oxides and particulates. Microbes in the digestive tracts of cattle and in rice fields break down plant materials and release an odorless gas called methane, a type of hydrocarbon. There are two types of air pollutants, Priary pollutants, which are those gases or particles that are pumped into the air to make it unclean. This includes carbon monoxide from cars, and from the combustion of coal, sulfur oxide. Another type of pollutant are called secondary pollutants. These are when pollutants in the air mix up to create an even more dangerous chemical. An example of this is photochemical smog.
What can I do to help?
There are many ways that you can prevent air pollution! One way is by carpooling or use public transportation. This will reduce fossil fuels. Also, try to walk or bike to places when you can. Another way to help prevent air pollution is by turning off lights, computers, and electric appliances when not in use. Another way you can prevent air pollution is by using energy efficient light bulbs and appliances.
These are my sources
"World Book Student | Article Page." World Book Student | Article Page. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2016. ESchooltoday. "What Is Air Pollution for Children?" What Is Air Pollution for Children? N.p., n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2016.
