Smog - Reaction of Chemicals

Abstract

Many of west coast Californians and east coast Floridians breathe contaminated air each day, particularly on days when levels of pollutants exceed federal and state standards for air quality. The nice weather combined with vehicle traffic and machinery, keep high levels of pollutants in the air. Although polluted air has long been known to cause abrupt signs such as chest tightness and coughing, this polluted air is probably the culprit for chronic or even long term respiratory problems (AQMD, n.d).

Smog

Smog is a reaction of chemicals called volatile organic compounds, nitrogen oxides and sunlight in the atmosphere which leaves ground level ozone, smog and airborne particles. Next, ground level ozone is an invisible gas made of three oxygen atoms that are not emitted into the air directly that is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in sunlight's presence. Then, Nitrogen Oxides are released by temperature (AQMD, 2012).

In fact, things such as fuel burning engines in coal plants, trucks, factories and cars produce the reaction that creates smog. Also, Volatile Organic Compounds from man-made sources are released into air such as paints, solvents, gasoline, and pesticides (AQMD, n.d). Unfortunately, smog is usually present in cities with warm, dry and sunny climates. In addition, smog is carried by the wind and can also affect areas that are less populated (AQMD, n.d) .

Respiratory Issues Related to Smog

According to the American Lung Association, Smog reacts chemically with internal body tissues such as those that are found in the lungs. Also, the Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards or NAAQS stated that ground level ozone is the primary ingredient in smog which is linked to many respiratory illnesses. Then, breathing smog during the summer time can lead to inflammation of the lung lining which can cause wheezing and coughing. It can also cause chest pain, shortness of breath, increased asthma attacks, and even hospitalization for lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma (AQMD, 2012).

Diesel Exhaust and Health Effects

Diesel fuel is used in the United States society to power buses, agricultural equipment and even for backup generators that help provide electricity during emergencies. Moreover, we use diesel fuel because it is cost efficient, however, it contains substances that pose a risk to society's health (OEHHA, n.d).

For one, diesel exhaust is made when the engines of these vehicles and equipment burn the diesel fuel. It is said, as we breathe, toxic gases and particles from diesel exhaust is drawn into