education MOTIVATION

Introduction The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines air pollution as “the presence of materials in the air in such concentration which are harmful to man and his environment.” Actually, it is the occurrence or addition of foreign particles, gases and other pollutants into the air which have an adverse effect on human beings, animals, vegetation, buildings etc.

1.Causes

Air pollution may be caused both by natural and manmade factors, although manmade factors are the major causes. Combu of fuels, which causes generation of by-products, is the predominant cause of air pollution. It may be through plying of automobiles and aeroplanes or through operation of thermal power plants and manufacturing. industries. Other manmade activities which cause air pollution include use of cosmetics, welding, construction or other such activity. Natural causes of pollution include pollen, spores, marsh gas, volcanic gases and synthesis of harmful chemicals by electric storms and solar flares.

2.Effects

Air pollutants may be broadly classified into particulate and gaseous. The particulate substances include solid and liquid particles. Both forms harm living beings as well as structures made by man. Particulate matter such as dust and smoke cause irritation of the respiratory tract and produce bronchitis, asthma and lung diseases. Smog reduces sunlight and may cause respiratory problems. Gaseous. pollutants such as carbon monoxide combine with haemoglobin in the blood and impair its oxygen carrying capacity. At higher concentration, carbon monoxide proves lethal. Oxides of sulphur are pollutants which cause irritation to the eyes and injury to the respiratory tract. Oxides of nitrogen cause eye irritation, respiratory troubles, blood congestion and dilation of arteries.

3.Conclusion

We can conclude that air pollution is a major issue before mankind which must be tackled with effective measures.