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Understanding Pollutants and Their Effects on Us

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PM2.5

Fine particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller.

Health: Enters lungs and bloodstream; raises risk of heart and lung disease.

Sources: Combustion, vehicles, industry, dust, smoke, chemical reactions.

PM10

Coarse particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller.

Health: Irritates lungs, eyes, and throat.

Sources: Dust, pollen, mold, construction, unpaved roads.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

A sharp-smelling gas from burning fuel, especially coal and oil.

Health: Causes lung irritation and worsens asthma.

Sources: Burning coal and oil, smelting, volcanoes.

Ozone (O3)

A gas formed by sunlight reacting with pollution.

Health: Triggers asthma, reduces lung function.

Sources: Sunlight reacting with vehicle and industrial emissions.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Gases from products like paint, cleaners, and fuel that may be harmful.

Health: Eye/throat irritation, some cause cancer.

Sources: Paints, solvents, cleaning products, fuels.

Formaldehyde (CH2O)

Colorless, flammable gas with a strong odor.

Health: Irritates eyes, nose, and throat; long-term exposure may increase cancer risk.

Sources: Furniture, flooring, paint, glues, insulation, cigarette smoke.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

A reddish gas from traffic and power plants that irritates airways.

Health: Aggravates asthma and respiratory issues.

Sources: Vehicle exhaust, power plants, industrial processes.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

A colorless, odorless gas that blocks oxygen in the body.

Health: Reduces oxygen to the heart and brain.

Sources: Cars, furnaces, wildfires, gas appliances.

Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)

A toxic gas with a rotten egg smell, often found in industrial settings.

Health: Causes headaches, nausea, breathing issues; high levels can be fatal.

Sources: Sewage, oil and gas drilling, landfills, manure, industrial waste.

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