Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources key terms

Particulates

Solid particles of carbon or other materials released during incomplete combustion that can penetrate the lungs and cause respiratory problems.

Acid rain

Precipitation that has become acidic due to the presence of sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen in the atmosphere, which can damage plants, aquatic ecosystems and buildings.

carbon monoxide

A toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion that reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen.

particulates

In Properties and effects of atmospheric pollutants, particulates means solid particles resulting from combustion that can cause respiratory problems. This matters in Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources because it supports the learning objective to compare the effects of carbon monoxide, particulates, sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen. Use particulates only in this subtopic-relevant sense so the definition stays concise, curriculum-specific, and useful for AQA GCSE Biology revision. Students should use this term accurately when they explain the biology, identify symptoms, or justify an answer in GCSE Biology questions.

atmospheric pollutants

Substances in the atmosphere that can have harmful effects on health and the environment.

carbon monoxide

A toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion that reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen.