Air pollutants

Air pollutants are substances in the air that can have harmful effects on human health, the
environment, or both. These pollutants can be solid particles, liquid droplets, or gases and are
introduced into the atmosphere through natural or human activities. Air pollutants are broadly
categorized into two types:

1. Primary Pollutants

These are emitted directly into the air from identifiable sources. Examples include:

• Carbon monoxide (CO): Released from vehicle exhaust and industrial processes.

• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂): Emitted by power plants and industrial facilities burning fossil fuels.

• Nitrogen oxides (NOx): Produced during high-temperature combustion in vehicles and

power plants.

• Particulate matter (PM): Tiny solid or liquid particles, like dust, soot, and smoke, emitted
from construction sites, factories, and wildfires.

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Released from paints, solvents, and vehicle emissions.

2. Secondary Pollutants

These form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving primary pollutants. Examples
include:

• Ozone (O₃): Formed when VOCs and NOx react in sunlight, contributing to smog.

• Acid rain: Results from reactions of SO₂ and NOx with water vapor, forming sulfuric and nitric
acids.

• Smog: A combination of ozone, particulate matter, and other pollutants that reduces
visibility and harms health.

Sources of Air Pollutants

Air pollutants come from natural events and human activities. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Natural Sources

• Volcanoes: Release gases like sulfur dioxide and ash.

• Wildfires: Produce smoke, carbon dioxide, and tiny particles.

• Dust Storms: Spread fine dust in the air.

• Plants: Some plants release natural gases called VOCs.

2. Human-Made Sources
a. Factories and Power Plants

• Burn coal, oil, or gas to produce energy, releasing harmful gases and particles.

b. Vehicles

• Cars, buses, and trucks emit smoke and gases like carbon monoxide from burning fuel.

c. Agriculture

• Fertilizers and animal waste release gases like ammonia and methane.

• Burning crops adds smoke and harmful particles.

d. Homes

• Burning wood, coal, or kerosene for cooking or heating releases smoke and gases.

e. Waste Burning

• Burning garbage produces toxic smoke and chemicals.

f. Construction

• Dust from building sites and roads adds particles to the air.

Combustion Processes and Pollutant Emission

Combustion is the process of burning a substance (fuel) in the presence of oxygen to release energy.
While it is essential for power generation, transportation, and industrial operations, it also produces
pollutants that harm the environment and human health.

Types of Combustion Processes

1. Complete Combustion

o Occurs when there is enough oxygen to fully burn the fuel.

o Produces carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) as byproducts.

o Example: Ideal burning of natural gas (methane): CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2OCH_4 +

2O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2OCH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O

2. Incomplete Combustion

o Happens when oxygen is limited.

o Produces harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide (CO), soot (particulate matter),
and unburned hydrocarbons.

o Example: Burning wood in a poorly ventilated space.

Pollutants from Combustion

1. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂):

o Produced during complete combustion of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas).

o A major greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.

2. Carbon Monoxide (CO):

o Formed during incomplete combustion.

o Highly toxic and can cause headaches, dizziness, or even death in high
concentrations.

3. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx):

o Produced at high temperatures when nitrogen in the air reacts with oxygen.

o Contributes to smog and acid rain and can irritate the respiratory system.

4. Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂):

o Released when sulfur-containing fuels (coal, oil) are burned.

o Causes acid rain and respiratory problems.

5. Particulate Matter (PM):

o Tiny particles (soot, ash) released during combustion.

o Can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing health issues.

6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

o Released from unburned fuels and solvents.

o React with NOx in sunlight to form ground-level ozone (smog).

7. Hydrocarbons:

o Formed due to incomplete burning of fuels.

o Contribute to smog and are harmful to health.

Sources of Combustion-Related Pollution

1. Vehicles: Burn gasoline or diesel, releasing CO₂, CO, NOx, and PM.

2. Power Plants: Use coal or gas, emitting CO₂, SO₂, NOx, and ash.

3. Industrial Processes: Emit various pollutants based on the fuel used.

4. Residential Heating and Cooking: Wood and coal burning produce CO, PM, and VOCs.

Ways to Reduce Pollutant Emission

• Use cleaner fuels like natural gas or renewable energy sources.

• Improve combustion efficiency with advanced technologies (e.g., catalytic converters in

vehicles).

• Adopt pollution control systems like scrubbers and filters in power plants.

• Promote public transportation and electric vehicles.

• Enforce stricter emission regulations and standards.

Effects of Air Pollutants on Health, Vegetation, Materials,

and Atmosphere
Air pollution has far-reaching consequences on human health, the environment, and infrastructure.
Here’s how it affects different domains:

1. Effects on Health

Air pollutants can cause or worsen various health issues:

• Respiratory Problems:

o Particulate matter (PM) can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to asthma,
bronchitis, and reduced lung function.

o Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) irritate the respiratory system.

• Cardiovascular Issues:

o Long-term exposure to PM and carbon monoxide (CO) increases the risk of heart
diseases and strokes.

• Toxicity and Poisoning:

o Carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin, reducing oxygen supply to the body,
causing dizziness, unconsciousness, or death.
o Lead and heavy metals from pollution damage the nervous system.

• Cancer and Chronic Diseases:

o Benzene (a VOC) and other pollutants are carcinogenic.

o Ozone (O₃) exposure leads to chronic lung diseases.

• Children and Elderly at Risk:

o Developing lungs in children and weakened immune systems in the elderly are
particularly vulnerable to pollution.

2. Effects on Vegetation

• Damage to Crops:

o Ozone damages plant cells, reducing crop yields (e.g., wheat, rice).

o Acid rain affects soil fertility by leaching essential nutrients.

• Reduced Photosynthesis:

o Dust and PM settle on leaves, blocking sunlight and reducing photosynthesis.

• Toxic Effects:

o Fluorides and heavy metals accumulate in plants, making them toxic to herbivores.

• Forest Degradation:

o Air pollutants weaken trees, making them susceptible to pests and diseases.

3. Effects on Materials and Infrastructure

• Corrosion and Erosion:

o Acid rain corrodes metals, buildings, and monuments (e.g., Taj Mahal discoloration
due to sulfur dioxide).

o PM and pollutants degrade surfaces, causing erosion over time.

• Discoloration:

o Soot and smoke stain buildings, statues, and painted surfaces.

• Weakened Structures:

o Salt and pollutants weaken concrete and metal, reducing structural integrity.

4. Effects on the Atmosphere

• Global Warming:
o Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) trap heat, causing
temperature rise.

• Ozone Depletion:

o Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) break down the ozone layer, increasing harmful UV

radiation exposure.

• Acid Rain:

o Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with water vapor, forming acids
that damage ecosystems.

• Smog Formation:

o Ground-level ozone and PM create smog, reducing visibility and air quality.

Preventive Measures

• Reduce emissions from vehicles, industries, and power plants.

• Promote renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

• Implement air quality monitoring and enforce pollution control regulations.

• Plant trees to absorb CO₂ and filter pollutants.

Reactions of Pollutants in the Atmosphere and Their Effects

Pollutants released into the atmosphere undergo various chemical and physical reactions, which
often enhance their harmful effects. These reactions can occur with sunlight, water vapor, or other
atmospheric gases, creating secondary pollutants that are sometimes more dangerous than the
primary ones.

1. Photochemical Reactions

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Effects:
o Ground-level ozone causes respiratory issues and damages vegetation.

o Photochemical smog reduces visibility and harms lung tissue.

2. Acid Rain Formation

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

•
• Effects:

o Acid rain damages crops, forests, and aquatic ecosystems.

o Corrodes buildings, monuments, and infrastructure.

3. Formation of Particulate Matter (PM)

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and ammonia
(NH₃).

•
• Effects:

o Fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular
diseases.

o Reduce visibility (haze) and contribute to smog.

4. Greenhouse Gas Effects

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).

• Reaction:
These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, enhancing the natural greenhouse effect.

• Effects:
o Global warming leads to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and loss of
biodiversity.

5. Ozone Layer Depletion

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons.

•
• Effects:

o Depletion of the ozone layer increases UV radiation, causing skin cancer, cataracts,
and harm to ecosystems.

6. Formation of Toxic Compounds

• Examples:

o Peroxyacetyl Nitrate (PAN): Formed during photochemical reactions of NOx and

VOCs, causing eye irritation and plant damage.

o Carbon Monoxide (CO): Interferes with oxygen transport in the blood, leading to
health problems.

7. Mercury and Heavy Metal Reactions

• Primary Pollutants Involved: Mercury (Hg) from coal burning.

• Reaction:
Mercury reacts with atmospheric particles, becoming methylmercury (CH₃Hg), a highly toxic
form.

• Effects:

o Accumulates in aquatic ecosystems, poisoning fish and humans.

Key Takeaways

• Many air pollutants undergo complex reactions, leading to secondary pollutants that
exacerbate health and environmental problems.

• Controlling emissions of primary pollutants is crucial to reducing their harmful reactions and
effects.
• Promoting renewable energy, cleaner technologies, and effective regulations can help
mitigate these issues.

Effects of Air Pollutants on Health, Vegetation, Materials,

and Atmosphere
Air pollution from various sources can have serious impacts on health, the environment, materials,
and the atmosphere. Below are the key effects:

1. Effects on Health

• Respiratory Issues:

o Pollutants like particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide
(SO₂) can irritate the lungs, causing asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory
diseases.

o Ozone (O₃) at ground level causes breathing difficulties and worsens lung diseases
like COPD.

• Cardiovascular Problems:

o Long-term exposure to pollutants like PM and carbon monoxide (CO) can lead to
heart disease and strokes.

• Cancer and Toxicity:

o Benzene, formaldehyde, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are

carcinogenic and can lead to cancer and organ damage.

• Developmental and Growth Issues:

o Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, with potential for impaired lung
development and aggravated pre-existing health conditions.

2. Effects on Vegetation

• Damage to Plant Cells:

o Ozone (O₃) damages plant leaves, reduces photosynthesis, and stunts growth,
leading to lower crop yields.

• Nutrient Loss:

o Acid rain, formed by pollutants like SO₂ and NOx, leaches nutrients from the soil,
damaging crops and forests.
• Stunted Growth and Toxicity:

o Heavy metals like lead and mercury can accumulate in plants, making them toxic and
reducing agricultural productivity.

• Forest Damage:

o Pollutants weaken trees, making them susceptible to diseases and pests, leading to
forest degradation.

3. Effects on Materials and Infrastructure

• Corrosion and Deterioration:

o Acid rain from SO₂ and NOx corrodes metal structures, buildings, and monuments
(e.g., rusting steel, eroding statues).

• Discoloration and Staining:

o Soot and particulate matter (PM) can stain buildings, especially in cities with high
pollution.

• Wear and Tear on Surfaces:

o The pollutants cause materials like concrete and glass to degrade over time, affecting
both the aesthetic and structural integrity of buildings.

4. Effects on the Atmosphere

• Global Warming:

o Greenhouse gases like CO₂, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) trap heat in the
atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

• Ozone Layer Depletion:

o Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) break down ozone molecules in the stratosphere,

reducing the ozone layer that protects life from harmful UV radiation.

• Smog and Reduced Visibility:

o Ground-level ozone (O₃) and PM contribute to smog, reducing visibility and causing
respiratory problems.

• Acid Rain:

o SO₂ and NOx mix with water vapor in the atmosphere, forming sulfuric and nitric
acids that fall as acid rain, harming ecosystems and infrastructure.
Reactions of Pollutants in the Atmosphere and Their Effects
Pollutants in the atmosphere can undergo various chemical reactions, amplifying their harmful
effects. Here's an overview of how pollutants react in the atmosphere and their resulting
environmental and health impacts.

1. Photochemical Reactions (Formation of Ozone and Smog)

• Primary Pollutants: Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Reaction:
When NOx and VOCs interact with sunlight, they produce ground-level ozone (O₃) and other
secondary pollutants, forming photochemical smog.

• Effects:

o Ground-level ozone is a major cause of respiratory problems such as asthma and

bronchitis.

o Photochemical smog reduces visibility and can lead to eye irritation and lung
damage.

2. Acid Rain Formation

• Primary Pollutants: Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

• Reaction:
These pollutants combine with water vapor and oxygen in the atmosphere to form sulfuric
acid and nitric acid, which fall as acid rain.

• Effects:

o Acid rain damages crops, forests, and aquatic ecosystems by lowering soil pH.

o It also corrodes buildings, monuments, and other infrastructure.

3. Formation of Particulate Matter (PM)

• Primary Pollutants: Sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and ammonia (NH₃).

• Reaction:
These pollutants can react in the atmosphere to form fine particles, including sulfates and
nitrates.

• Effects:

o Particulate matter (especially PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to
respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.

o It also reduces visibility and contributes to smog formation.

4. Greenhouse Gas Effect

• Primary Pollutants: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O).

• Reaction:
These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, enhancing the natural greenhouse effect.

• Effects:

o Global warming causes rising temperatures, leading to melting ice caps, sea-level
rise, and extreme weather events.

o Disruption of ecosystems and biodiversity.

5. Ozone Layer Depletion

• Primary Pollutants: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons.

• Reaction:
CFCs are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) light in the stratosphere, releasing chlorine (Cl)
atoms that destroy ozone (O₃) molecules.

• Effects:

o The depletion of the ozone layer increases harmful UV radiation reaching the Earth's
surface, leading to skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems.

o It also affects plant and marine life, disrupting ecosystems.

6. Toxic Compound Formation

• Examples:

o Peroxyacetyl Nitrate (PAN) is formed when VOCs and NOx react in sunlight, and it
can cause respiratory irritation and damage plants.

o Carbon monoxide (CO) interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, leading
to dizziness and, in extreme cases, death.

7. Mercury and Heavy Metal Reactions

• Primary Pollutants: Mercury (Hg) from industrial processes, particularly coal burning.

• Reaction:
Mercury reacts in the atmosphere to form methylmercury, which is highly toxic.

• Effects:

o Methylmercury accumulates in aquatic ecosystems, poisoning fish and other

wildlife, which in turn affects human health through the food chain.
Smoke
• What is Smoke?
Smoke is a mixture of gases and tiny solid particles produced by the incomplete combustion
of organic materials like wood, coal, or fossil fuels. It contains harmful pollutants, including
carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and particulate matter (PM).

• Sources of Smoke:

o Wildfires

o Vehicle emissions

o Industrial emissions

o Household burning of biomass (like wood or crop residue)

• Effects of Smoke:

o Health Impact: Inhalation of smoke can cause respiratory diseases, heart problems,
and aggravate existing conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

o Environmental Impact: Smoke reduces air quality, harms plant life, and contributes
to the formation of acid rain and smog.

2. Smog

• What is Smog?
Smog is a type of air pollution that results from the interaction of sunlight with pollutants
such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to the
formation of ground-level ozone. It can be classified into two types:

o Photochemical Smog (Los Angeles Smog): Occurs in sunny areas, especially in cities
with heavy vehicular traffic. It forms when sunlight reacts with pollutants to produce
ground-level ozone.

o Industrial Smog (London Smog): Occurs when coal is burned, producing smoke and
sulfur dioxide (SO₂) that combine with water vapor to form sulfuric acid.

• Sources of Smog:

o Industrial emissions

o Vehicle exhaust

o Agricultural activities

o Household activities (e.g., use of solvents)

• Effects of Smog:

o Health Impact: Causes respiratory issues, eye irritation, and exacerbates conditions
like asthma and lung diseases. Prolonged exposure can lead to heart disease and
cancer.
o Environmental Impact: Smog can damage crops, reduce plant growth, and impair
visibility, leading to the degradation of natural ecosystems.

Ozone Layer Definition

“The ozone layer is a region in the earth’s stratosphere that contains high concentrations of ozone
and protects the earth from the harmful ultraviolet radiations of the sun.”

The ozone layer is mainly found in the lower portion of the earth’s atmosphere. It has the potential
to absorb around 97-99% of the harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun that can damage
life on earth. If the ozone layer was absent, millions of people would develop skin diseases and may
have weakened immune systems.

However, scientists have dis

covered a hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. This has focussed their concern on various
environmental issues and steps to control them. The main reasons for the ozone hole are
chlorofluorocarbons, carbon tetrachloride, methyl bromide and hydrochlorofluorocarbons.

Ozone Layer Depletion

“Ozone layer depletion is the gradual thinning of the earth’s ozone layer in the upper atmosphere
caused due to the release of chemical compounds containing gaseous bromine or chlorine from
industries or other human activities.”

What is Ozone Layer Depletion?

Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer present in the upper atmosphere. This
happens when the chlorine and bromine atoms in the atmosphere come in contact with ozone and
destroy the ozone molecules. One chlorine can destroy 100,000 molecules of ozone. It is destroyed
more quickly than it is created.

Some compounds release chlorine and bromine on exposure to high ultraviolet light, which then
contributes to ozone layer depletion. Such compounds are known as Ozone Depleting Substances
(ODS).

The ozone-depleting substances that contain chlorine include chlorofluorocarbon, carbon

tetrachloride, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, and methyl chloroform. Whereas, the ozone-depleting
substances that contain bromine are halons, methyl bromide, and hydro bromofluorocarbons.

Chlorofluorocarbons are the most abundant ozone-depleting substance. It is only when the chlorine
atom reacts with some other molecule, it does not react with ozone.

Montreal Protocol was proposed in 1987 to stop the use, production and import of ozone-depleting
substances and minimise their concentration in the atmosphere to protect the ozone layer of the
earth

Causes of Ozone Layer Depletion

Ozone layer depletion is a major concern and is associated with a number of factors. The main
causes responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer are listed below:

Chlorofluorocarbons

Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs are the main cause of ozone layer depletion. These are released by
solvents, spray aerosols, refrigerators, air-conditioners, etc.

The molecules of chlorofluorocarbons in the stratosphere are broken down by ultraviolet radiations
and release chlorine atoms. These atoms react with ozone and destroy it.

Unregulated Rocket Launches

Researches say that the unregulated launching of rockets results in much more depletion of the
ozone layer than the CFCs do. If not controlled, this might result in a huge loss of the ozone layer by
the year 2050.

Nitrogenous Compounds

The nitrogenous compounds such as NO2, NO, N2O are highly responsible for the depletion of the
ozone layer.

Natural Causes

The ozone layer has been found to be depleted by certain natural processes such as Sun-spots and
stratospheric winds. But it does not cause more than 1-2% of the ozone layer depletion.

The volcanic eruptions are also responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.

Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)

“Ozone-depleting substances are the substances such as chlorofluorocarbons, halons, carbon

tetrachloride, hydrofluorocarbons, etc. that are responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.”
Following is the list of some main ozone-depleting substances and the sources from where they are
released:

Ozone-Depleting Substances Sources

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) Refrigerators, air-conditioners, solvents, dry-cleaning agents, etc.

Halons Fire-extinguishers

Carbon tetrachloride Fire extinguishers, solvents

Methyl chloroform Adhesives, aerosols

Hydrofluorocarbons fire extinguishers, air-conditioners, solvents

Also Read: Global Warming

Effects Of Ozone Layer Depletion

The depletion of the ozone layer has harmful effects on the environment. Let us see the major effects
of ozone layer depletion on man and environment.

Effects on Human Health

Humans will be directly exposed to the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun due to the depletion
of the ozone layer. This might result in serious health issues among humans, such as skin
diseases, cancer, sunburns, cataract, quick ageing and weak immune system.

Effects on Animals

Direct exposure to ultraviolet radiations leads to skin and eye cancer in animals.

Effects on the Environment

Strong ultraviolet rays may lead to minimal growth, flowering and photosynthesis in plants. The
forests also have to bear the harmful effects of the ultraviolet rays.

Effects on Marine Life

Planktons are greatly affected by the exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. These are higher in the
aquatic food chain. If the planktons are destroyed, the organisms present in the food chain are also
affected.

Solutions to Ozone Layer Depletion

The depletion of the ozone layer is a serious issue and various programmes have been launched by
the government of various countries to prevent it. However, steps should be taken at the individual
level as well to prevent the depletion of the ozone layer.
Following are some points that would help in preventing this problem at a global level:

Avoid Using ODS

Reduce the use of ozone depleting substances. E.g. avoid the use of CFCs in refrigerators and air
conditioners, replacing the halon based fire extinguishers, etc.

Minimise the Use of Vehicles

The vehicles emit a large amount of greenhouse gases that lead to global warming as well as ozone
depletion. Therefore, the use of vehicles should be minimised as much as possible.

Use Eco-friendly Cleaning Products

Most of the cleaning products have chlorine and bromine releasing chemicals that find a way into the
atmosphere and affect the ozone layer. These should be substituted with natural products to protect
the environment.

Use of Nitrous Oxide should be Prohibited

The government should take actions and prohibit the use of harmful nitrous oxide that is adversely
affecting the ozone layer. People should be made aware of the harmful effects of nitrous oxide and
the products emitting the gas so that its use is minimised at the individual level as well.

Greenhouse Effect Definition

“Greenhouse effect is the process by which radiations from the sun are absorbed by the
greenhouse gases and not reflected back into space. This insulates the surface of the earth and
prevents it from freezing.”

What is the Greenhouse Effect?

A greenhouse is a house made of glass that can be used to grow plants. The sun’s radiations warm
the plants and the air inside the greenhouse. The heat trapped inside can’t escape out and warms
the greenhouse which is essential for the growth of the plants. Same is the case in the earth’s
atmosphere.

During the day the sun heats up the earth’s atmosphere. At night, when the earth cools down the
heat is radiated back into the atmosphere. During this process, the heat is absorbed by the
greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere. This is what makes the surface of the earth warmer,
that makes the survival of living beings on earth possible.

However, due to the increased levels of greenhouse gases, the temperature of the earth has
increased considerably. This has led to several drastic effects.

Greenhouse Gases

“Greenhouse gases are the gases that absorb the infrared radiations and create a greenhouse
effect. For eg., carbondioxide and chlorofluorocarbons.”
Greenhouse Effect Diagram

The Diagram shows Greenhouse Gases such as carbon dioxide are the primary cause for the
Greenhouse Effect

The major contributors to the greenhouse gases are factories, automobiles, deforestation, etc. The
increased number of factories and automobiles increases the amount of these gases in the
atmosphere. The greenhouse gases never let the radiations escape from the earth and increase the
surface temperature of the earth. This then leads to global warming.

Causes of Greenhouse Effect

The major causes of the greenhouse effect are:

Burning of Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels are an important part of our lives. They are widely used in transportation and to produce
electricity. Burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide. With the increase in population, the
utilization of fossil fuels has increased. This has led to an increase in the release of greenhouse gases
in the atmosphere.

Deforestation

Plants and trees take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Due to the cutting of trees, there is a
considerable increase in the greenhouse gases which increases the earth’s temperature.
Farming

Nitrous oxide used in fertilizers is one of the contributors to the greenhouse effect in the
atmosphere.

Industrial Waste and Landfills

The industries and factories produce harmful gases which are released in the atmosphere.

Landfills also release carbon dioxide and methane that adds to the greenhouse gases.

Effects of Greenhouse Effect

The main effects of increased greenhouse gases are:

Global Warming

It is the phenomenon of a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere.
The main cause for this environmental issue is the increased volumes of greenhouse gases such as
carbon dioxide and methane released by the burning of fossil fuels, emissions from the vehicles,
industries and other human activities.

Depletion of Ozone Layer

Ozone Layer protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. It is found in the upper
regions of the stratosphere. The depletion of the ozone layer results in the entry of the harmful UV
rays to the earth’s surface that might lead to skin cancer and can also change the climate drastically.

The major cause of this phenomenon is the accumulation of natural greenhouse gases including
chlorofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, methane, etc.

Smog and Air Pollution

Smog is formed by the combination of smoke and fog. It can be caused both by natural means and
man-made activities.

In general, smog is generally formed by the accumulation of more greenhouse gases including
nitrogen and sulfur oxides. The major contributors to the formation of smog are automobile and
industrial emissions, agricultural fires, natural forest fires and the reaction of these chemicals among
themselves.

Acidification of Water Bodies

Increase in the total amount of greenhouse gases in the air has turned most of the world’s water
bodies acidic. The greenhouse gases mix with the rainwater and fall as acid rain. This leads to the
acidification of water bodies.

Also, the rainwater carries the contaminants along with it and falls into the river, streams and lakes
thereby causing their acidification.

Runaway Greenhouse Effect

This phenomenon occurs when the planet absorbs more radiation than it can radiate back. Thus, the
heat lost from the earth’s surface is less and the temperature of the planet keeps rising. Scientists
believe that this phenomenon took place on the surface of Venus billions of years ago.

This phenomenon is believed to have occurred in the following manner:

• A runaway greenhouse effect arises when the temperature of a planet rises to a level of the
boiling point of water. As a result, all the water from the oceans converts into water vapour,
which traps more heat coming from the sun and further increases the planet’s temperature.
This eventually accelerates the greenhouse effect. This is also called the “positive feedback
loop”.

• There is another scenario giving way to the runaway greenhouse effect. Suppose the
temperature rise due to the above causes reaches such a high level that the chemical
reactions begin to occur. These chemical reactions drive carbon dioxide from the rocks into
the atmosphere. This would heat the surface of the planet which would further accelerate
the transfer of carbon dioxide from the rocks to the atmosphere, giving rise to the runaway
greenhouse effect.

In simple words, increasing the greenhouse effect gives rise to a runaway greenhouse effect which
would increase the temperature of the earth to such an extent that no life will exist in the near
future.