Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources

• What is a major source of atmospheric pollutants?

  Combustion of fuels
• What elements do most fuels contain?

  Carbon and/or hydrogen, and may also contain sulfur
• What gases are released into the atmosphere when a fuel burns?

  Carbon dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen
• What forms particulates in the atmosphere during fuel combustion?

  Solid particles and unburned hydrocarbons
• What happens during incomplete combustion of fuel?

  Some fuel does not burn, releasing soot, carbon monoxide, and unburnt fuel
• What is produced when hydrocarbons are combusted?

  Energy, carbon dioxide, and water
• What is carbon monoxide and why is it dangerous?

  It is a toxic, colorless, and odorless gas that is not easy to detect
• What are the effects of sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen?

  They cause acid rain and respiratory problems in humans
• What problems do particulates cause?

  They cause global dimming and human health problems