Correct option is C
The Correct Answer Is: (C) Particulate Matter
- Explanation :
- Soot is primarily made up of particulate matter (PM), which consists of tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air.
- These particles mainly come from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal, diesel, and biomass.
- PM2.5 and PM10 (particulate matter with diameters less than 2.5 and 10 micrometers, respectively) are the most harmful because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Information Booster:
- Sources of Soot (Particulate Matter):
- Vehicle exhaust (diesel engines are a major source)
- Burning of biomass, wood, and coal
- Wildfires and stubble burning
- Vehicle exhaust (diesel engines are a major source)
Health Effects of Soot:
- Respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
- Premature deaths due to air pollution
Additional Knowledge :
Ozone: Ozone (O₃) is a major component of photochemical smog and is harmful at ground level.
- It is formed by the reaction of pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in sunlight.
Lead: Lead (Pb) is a toxic metal that was once commonly found in vehicle emissions due to leaded gasoline.
- It affects the nervous system, especially in children, causing brain damage and learning disabilities.
Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of fuels.
- It binds to hemoglobin in the blood, reducing oxygen supply to the body and leading to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and even death in high concentrations.
- Major sources include vehicle emissions, burning of wood, and faulty home heating systems.
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