Page 5 - 2. Lesson notes- Air, Rain and Air pollution

Factories and industries are the main source of carbon monoxide, organic compounds,

hydrocarbons, and chemicals. These are released into the air degrading its quality.

4. Mining Activities

In the mining process, the minerals below the earth are extracted using large pieces of
equipment. The dust and chemicals released during the process not only pollute the air but also

deteriorate the health of the workers and people living in the nearby areas.

5.Domestic Sources

The household cleaning products and paints contain toxic chemicals that are released in the

air. The smell from the newly painted walls is the smell of the chemicals present in the paints.
It not only pollutes the air but also affects breathing.

Effects of Air Pollution

The hazardous effects of air pollution on the environment include:

1.Diseases
Air pollution has resulted in several respiratory disorders and heart diseases among humans.

The cases of lung cancer have increased in the last few decades. Children living near polluted
areas are more prone to pneumonia and asthma. Many people die every year due to the direct

or indirect effects of air pollution.

2.Global Warming

Due to the emission of greenhouse gases, there is an imbalance in the gaseous composition

of the air. This has led to an increase in the temperature of the earth. This increase in earth’s
temperature is known as global warming. This has resulted in the melting of glaciers and an

increase in sea levels. Many areas are submerged under water.

3.Acid Rain

The burning of fossil fuels releases harmful gases such as nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides

in the air. The water droplets combine with these pollutants, become acidic, and fall as acid rain
which damages human, animal and plant life.