Air Pollution Basics
Sulfur Pollutants
Sulfur pollutants mainly come from burning fossil fuels like coal and oil. When these fuels are burned, they release sulfur dioxide (SO₂) into the atmosphere. This gas can cause respiratory problems and contributes to the formation of acid rain. Acid rain is harmful to ecosystems, corroding buildings, damaging forests, and acidifying bodies of water (Freedman, 2018).
Nitrogen Pollutants
Nitrogen pollutants are created when fuel is burned at high temperatures, especially in vehicles and power plants. This process produces nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), which are major contributors to smog and acid rain. Nitrogen oxides also help form ground-level ozone, which can irritate the lungs and worsen asthma or bronchitis. Additionally, when nitrogen compounds wash into rivers and lakes, they can cause harmful algal blooms (Freedman, 2018).
Hydrocarbon and Volatile Organic Compound Pollutants
Hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released by vehicles, industries, and even household products like paints and cleaners. VOCs are gases that easily evaporate into the air. When VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight, they form ground-level ozone and smog. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of cancer (Freedman, 2018).
Comparison of Current AQI
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a simple way to communicate how clean or polluted the air is, using a scale from 0 to 500. The higher the number, the greater the level of air pollution and the more serious the health concern. The AQI includes pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5), ground-level ozone, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide. An AQI under 50 is considered “Good,” while readings above 150 are classified as “Unhealthy.”
This table highlights that Midland-Odessa, TX, is currently experiencing "Very Unhealthy" air quality levels, which can pose serious health risks to the general population. In contrast, San Antonio, TX, where I reside, is enjoying "Good" air quality, making it safe for outdoor activities. Los Angeles, CA, has a "Moderate" AQI, suggesting that individuals who are unusually sensitive should consider reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
Comparison of Current PM 2.5 and O3 (Ozone)
Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) refers to very tiny particles or droplets in the air that are 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter. Because of their small size, they can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks such as respiratory and cardiovascular issues. PM2.5 can come from various sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and wildfires.
Ozone (O₃), when found at ground level, is a harmful pollutant created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides and VOCs in the presence of sunlight. While ozone high up in the stratosphere protects us from harmful ultraviolet rays, ground-level ozone can cause or worsen respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis.
Here is a quick comparison of current PM2.5 and ozone levels in the same locations as above:
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