Industrial smog, often referred to as London smog or sulfurous smog, primarily results from the burning of fossil fuels, especially coal, in industrial areas. It's characterized by the presence of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter.
Photochemical smog, also known as Los Angeles smog, arises from the interaction of sunlight with pollutants like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by automobiles and industrial sources. Key components include ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN).
| Feature | Industrial Smog | Photochemical Smog |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Pollutants | Sulfur dioxide ($SO_2$), Particulate Matter | Nitrogen oxides ($NO_x$), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) |
| Formation Conditions | Cool, damp conditions; often in winter | Warm, sunny conditions; often in summer |
| Key Components | Sulfur dioxide, soot, sulfuric acid | Ozone ($O_3$), Peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) |
| Main Sources | Burning of coal and heavy oils in industries and power plants | Emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and solvents |
| Color/Appearance | Grayish/blackish | Brownish/yellowish |
| Health Effects | Respiratory problems (bronchitis), cardiovascular issues | Eye irritation, respiratory problems (asthma), damage to vegetation |
| Environmental Impact | Acid rain, damage to buildings and monuments | Damage to vegetation, reduced visibility |
Please log in to post your answer.
Log InEarn 2 Points for answering. If your answer is selected as the best, you'll get +20 Points! π