Environmental Pollution

Overview

Environmental Pollution is a critical area of study in Chemistry that delves into the various types of pollutants that contaminate the air, water, and soil, thereby posing serious threats to ecosystems and human health. This course material aims to equip students with a thorough understanding of the different types of pollution, their sources, classification, effects on the environment, and measures for effective control.

One of the primary objectives of this course is to help students identify the diverse forms of pollution and the specific pollutants associated with each type. Air pollution, for instance, involves pollutants such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and dust particles. Understanding the composition of these pollutants is essential for recognizing their environmental impacts.

Water pollution is another focus of this course, where students will explore sewage and oil pollution as prominent sources of contamination in water bodies. Additionally, the study of soil pollution will cover issues like oil spillage and the distinction between biodegradable and non-biodegradable pollutants that disrupt soil quality.

Moreover, this material will delve into the effects of environmental pollution on ecosystems and human health. By classifying pollutants as either biodegradable or non-biodegradable, students will grasp the lasting implications of pollution on biodiversity and the balance of nature. Furthermore, the course will highlight the urgent need for implementing effective measures to control pollution and mitigate its adverse effects.

Through this comprehensive course material, students will gain the knowledge and awareness required to become proactive stewards of the environment. By understanding the sources, effects, and control measures of environmental pollutants, individuals can contribute to sustainable practices and safeguard the planet for future generations.

Objectives

  1. Identify Measures for Control of Environmental Pollution
  2. Specify the Effects of Pollution on the Environment
  3. Identify the Different Types of Pollution and Pollutants
  4. Classify Pollutants as Biodegradable and Non-biodegradable
  5. Specify Different Sources of Pollutants

Lesson Note

Environmental pollution refers to the contamination of the Earth's environment with materials that interfere with human health, the quality of life, and the natural functioning of ecosystems. Pollution can occur in various forms including air, water, and soil pollution. Each type contributes to global challenges such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, and public health issues, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable management practices.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Environmental Pollution. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. Identify the pollutant responsible for the "acid rain" phenomenon. A. CO2 B. SO2 C. H2S D. NO2 Answer: B. SO2
  2. Which of the following is considered a non-biodegradable pollutant? A. Plastic B. Paper C. Food scraps D. Wood Answer: A. Plastic
  3. What is the major cause of water pollution in urban areas? A. Agricultural runoff B. Industrial discharge C. Oil spills D. Radioactive waste Answer: B. Industrial discharge
  4. What is the primary source of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the environment? A. Burning of fossil fuels B. Pesticides C. Refrigerants D. Volcanic eruptions Answer: C. Refrigerants
  5. Which of the following is a natural gaseous constituent of the air? A. Methane B. Helium C. Carbon monoxide D. Sulfur dioxide Answer: B. Helium
  6. What is the proportion of oxygen in the air by volume? A. 20% B. 21% C. 23% D. 25% Answer: B. 21%
  7. Which of the following is considered a soft water source? A. Lake B. River C. Well D. Rain Answer: D. Rain
  8. What is the process of the conversion of a gas into a liquid? A. Condensation B. Sublimation C. Precipitation D. Evaporation Answer: A. Condensation
  9. What is the biological significance of atmospheric gases dissolved in water? A. Enhances photosynthesis B. Improves taste C. Aids respiration in aquatic organisms D. Promotes algal growth Answer: C. Aids respiration in aquatic organisms

Recommended Books

Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Chemistry
Subtitle Principles and Practice
Publisher Oxford University Press
Year 2015
ISBN 978-0199693074
Pollution and Environmental Impact
Pollution and Environmental Impact
Subtitle Chemical Principles and Applications
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Year 2018
ISBN 978-1108419452

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Environmental Pollution from previous years

JAMB UTME - Chemistry - 2023 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

What is the main environmental concern associated with sulfur dioxide emissions?

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WAEC SSCE - Chemistry - 2020 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

An example of a biodegradable pollutant is?

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NECO SSCE - Chemistry - 2009 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

The green house effect is a climatic condition associated with the presence of excess

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Practice a number of Environmental Pollution past questions