Understanding SO2 in the Air

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What can high concentrations of SO2 in the air lead to?

Increase in nitrogen oxides (NOx)

Production of ozone

Formation of other sulfur oxides (SOx) (correct)

Enhanced carbon dioxide levels

How do small particles formed from SOx contribute to pollution?

By promoting plant growth

By penetrating deeply into the lungs (correct)

By increasing the ozone layer

By reducing carbon dioxide levels

What is a harmful effect of SO2 and other sulfur oxides on trees and plants?

Reduced foliage and decreased growth (correct)

Improved photosynthesis

Increased resistance to diseases

Enhanced foliage growth

What can SO2 and other sulfur oxides contribute to that can harm sensitive ecosystems?

Acid rain Signup and view all the answers

How do SO2 and other sulfur oxides affect visibility in parts of the United States?

They form fine particles that reduce visibility (haze) Signup and view all the answers

What will EPA’s national and regional rules help state and local governments achieve?

Meet EPA's national air quality standards Signup and view all the answers

What do state, local, and tribal governments develop plans for in areas where air quality does not meet EPA SO2 standards?

To reduce the amount of SO2 in the air Signup and view all the answers

Who is particularly sensitive to the harmful effects of SO2?

People with asthma, particularly children Signup and view all the answers

What do high levels of gaseous SOx in the air do to breathing?

Make breathing difficult Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary component of concern in EPA's national ambient air quality standards for SOx?

SO2 Signup and view all the answers

Which control measures can generally be expected to reduce people’s exposures to all gaseous SOx?

Measures that reduce SO2 Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is NOT listed as a smaller source of SO2 emissions?

Burning fossil fuels by power plants Signup and view all the answers

Which harmful effect can SO2 have on health?

Respiratory problems Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest source of SO2 emissions?

Fossil fuel combustion at power plants Signup and view all the answers

How does reducing SO2 emissions from industrial facilities and power plants benefit the environment?

Reduces the formation of fine sulfate particles Signup and view all the answers

What role do natural sources such as volcanoes play in emitting SO2?

Significant source of SO2 emissions Signup and view all the answers

Apart from power plants and industrial facilities, which other activities contribute to SO2 emissions?

Locomotives and ships burning high sulfur content fuel Signup and view all the answers

What is used as the indicator for the larger group of gaseous sulfur oxides (SOx)?