Air pollutants and their effects

Hydrocarbons – hydrocarbons such as methane,

are evolved from soil microbes (methanogens) in
flooded rice fields and swamps. They are also
generated during the burning of coal and petroleum
products.

Sulphur dioxide – is released from oil refineries

and ore smelters which use the sulphur containing
fuels. It causes harmful effects on plants and animals.
It causes chlorosis (loss of chlorophyll) and necrosis
(localised death of tissues). In human, it causes health
problems such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema.

Nitrogen oxides – It causes reddish brown haze

(brown air) in traffic congested city air which
contributes to heart and lung problems.