Describe the distinction between a primary pollutant and a secondary pollutant. Give an example of a primary pollutant and an example of a secondary pollutant. Explain the source(s) and effect(s) of each of these pollutants, and describe recent U.S

trends in atmospheric concentrations of each.


A primary pollutant is a chemical contaminant that is directly released from its source, while a secondary pollutant is formed via reactions between primary pollutants and other gases in the atmosphere.
Lead is one example of a primary pollutant. Until its use was eliminated in 1996, lead was added to gasoline as a way to improve engine performance. Although its concentrations in the United States have been declining, lead is still released from fossil fuel combustion in power plants and from industrial processes such as lead smelters, solid waste incineration facilities, and lead-acid battery producers. Lead interferes with nervous system function and can cause brain damage.
Tropospheric ozone (O

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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