Question 8
What are the harmful effects of photochemical smog and how can they be controlled?
EFFECTS OF PHOTOCHEMICAL SMOG:
Photochemical smog is oxidizing smog owing to the presence of NO2 and O3,causing corrosion of metals, stones, rubber, and painted surfaces. The other major components of photochemical smog are PAN, acrolein, and formaldehyde. Both PAN and ozone are eye irritants, while nitric oxide (formed from NO2) causes nose and throat irritation. At higher concentrations, photochemical smog causes chest pain, headaches, throat dryness, and various respiratory ailments.
CONTROL MEASURES:
Photochemical smog results from the burring of fossil fuels and automobile fuelsthat emit NO2 and hydrocarbons, which in turn form ozone, PAN, and other chemicals. The use of catalytic converters in automobiles is recommended to prevent the release of NO2 and hydrocarbons into the atmosphere. Plantation of plants such as Pinus, Juniparur, Quercus, Pyrus, and Vitis is also advised as these plants have the capability to metabolize NO2.
