Photochemical smog can seriously affect human health, environment and animals. It can be seen with the naked eye and resembles a brownish haze that is visible above cities. Are you wondering exactly what photochemical smog is and how it may impact your well-being? Keep reading to learn more! Table of Contents
- What is photochemical smog? Definition
- Photochemical smog – primary and secondary pollutants
- Effects of photochemical smog on health
- What causes photochemical smog? Main sources of pollution
- Photochemical smog – the takeaway
What is photochemical smog? Definition
Photochemical smog formation can be compared to a mixture of pollutants created when volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides interact with sunlight. As a result, they make a brownish haze that can be seen above the cities, usually in the summer months when there is lots of sun.
Photochemical smog – primary and secondary pollutants
When talking about what is photochemical smog, it’s crucial to mention the primary and secondary pollutants that constitute it. Primary pollutants include volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. When they react with sunlight, they create secondary pollutants, meaning the ozone at ground level, or other harmful compounds like peroxyacetyl nitrate.
Effects of photochemical smog on health
Photochemical smog can have a tremendous impact on humans, animals, plants, and materials. The harmful substance can hinder photosynthesis, thus inhibiting plant growth. Moreover, ozone can negatively affect various compounds like rubber, paint, and dyed fibers. It may damage their duration and quality. When it comes to health effects of photochemical smog formation, it’s crucial to mention:
- Problems with heart and lungs,
- Weak immune system,
- Eye irritation,
- Respiratory problems,
- Intense coughing or wheezing.
Read more about smog effect on human health on our blog.
What causes photochemical smog? Main sources of pollution
Although the main components of photochemical smog (nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds) are produced naturally, they can also come from man-made sources. It’s important to mention that natural emissions usually have a less severe impact on humans, as they are typically spread over big areas. This group includes bushfires, microbial processes, or lightning. On the other hand, man-made pollutants are typically close to their source, e.g., a city. This group includes the combustion of fossil fuels, evaporation of solvents, or activities such as backyard burning.
Photochemical smog – the takeaway
Photochemical smog is visible with the naked eye. This compound includes both primary and secondary pollutants that can be very dangerous for health. If you want to protect yourself and your friends and family, use available tools like air quality sensors, and maps that will inform you about air pollution levels in your area in real-time. Want to learn more about primary and secondary sources of air pollution? Check out our article where we discuss 16 most dangerous natural and man-made sources of air pollution.