Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
TYPES OF POSSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
BY THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
T
A
O
THE
IR
1.
Sulfur dioxide
: A toxic and corrosive gas emitted continuously in
dilute form, principally from the burning of fossil fuels.
2.
Toxic gas emissions
: Usually concentrated chlorine-containing
gases or other harmful vapors released by accident.
3.
Foul-smelling gases
: Sulfur-containing gases such as hydrogen sul-
fide that have an odor even at low concentrations.
4.
Dust
: Can be anywhere that minerals or finely-divided solids are
handled.
5.
Smoke
: Man-made smoke is now mainly controlled in developed
countries.
6.
Sprays
: Small liquid droplets in the air that can be caused by
process upsets or by high wind.
7.
Radioactivity
: Accidental releases may occur.
T
W
O
ATER
1. S
: This type of pollution
adversely affects the oxygen content of water (BOD, biological
oxygen demand).
ewage and organic industrial wastes
2.
Bacteria and viruses
: Usually from sewage.
3.
Plant nutrients
: From sewage and drainage of fertilized farmland.
Causes rapid algae growth that uses up oxygen (eutrophication).
4.
Organic pesticides
: Now mainly controlled by regulation.
5.
Waste minerals and chemicals
: Caused by leaching of mineral and
chemical waste heaps and landfills. Can cause enormous damage.
6.
Plant discharge into waterways
: Now strictly regulated by law.
7.
Sediments
: Can cause turbidity and bottom sludge.
8.
Heat
: Changes plant growth rate and amount of dissolved oxygen.
