Unit 3 & 4: Air and Water Pollution

UNIT 3: AIR POLLUTION

1. Various segments of atmosphere and their significance

The atmosphere is divided into layers based on temperature variations, each playing a crucial role in

supporting life on Earth. These layers include the troposphere, where weather occurs and life exists;

the stratosphere, containing the ozone layer that protects Earth from harmful UV rays; the

mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. Each segment helps regulate temperature, supports

ecosystems, and protects the planet from solar radiation and space debris.

2. Classification of air pollutants

Air pollutants are categorized based on their origin and chemical nature. Primary pollutants are

emitted directly from sources like factories and vehicles (e.g., sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides).

Secondary pollutants, like ozone, are formed in the atmosphere from chemical reactions involving

primary pollutants. Pollutants can also be classified as particulate matter, gases, and biological

contaminants.

3. Toxic effects

Air pollution has severe toxic effects on both human health and the environment. In humans,

exposure to pollutants can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even cancer.

Certain pollutants like lead and mercury are neurotoxic. On a global scale, pollutants degrade

ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and contribute to climate change by disrupting natural cycles.

4. Sampling and analysis

Air quality monitoring involves sampling air pollutants and analyzing their concentrations. Various

techniques are used, such as passive samplers, active air sampling, and remote sensing. Analysis
is performed using methods like gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectrophotometry.

These techniques help track pollution trends and assess compliance with environmental standards.

5. Stationary and mobile emissions

Stationary emissions come from fixed sources like factories, power plants, and industrial processes,

while mobile emissions originate from vehicles and machinery. Stationary sources can be regulated

more easily than mobile ones, but both contribute significantly to air pollution. Key pollutants from

these sources include carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and nitrogen oxides.

6. Sources and their control

Air pollution sources can be natural (e.g., wildfires, volcanic eruptions) or anthropogenic (e.g.,

transportation, industry). Control measures include technological solutions like catalytic converters,

renewable energy adoption, and policy regulations like emission standards. Additionally, individual

actions such as carpooling, reducing energy consumption, and promoting sustainable agriculture

help mitigate pollution.

7. Photochemical smog

Photochemical smog forms when sunlight interacts with nitrogen oxides and volatile organic

compounds, leading to the creation of ground-level ozone and other harmful substances. This type

of smog is prevalent in urban areas with high traffic and industrial activity, causing respiratory

issues, eye irritation, and environmental damage.

8. Sulphurous smog

Also known as "London-type smog," sulphurous smog results from the burning of fossil fuels

containing sulfur. It typically occurs in cold, humid conditions and is characterized by the release of

sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, leading to dense, toxic air. This type of smog is responsible for
historical air pollution events like the Great Smog of London in 1952.

9. Greenhouse effect and global warming

The greenhouse effect is a natural process where gases like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, and

water vapor trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, keeping it warm enough to sustain life. However,

human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, have increased the concentration of these

gases, leading to global warming - the long-term rise in Earth's average temperature.

10. Ozone depletion

Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere, primarily

caused by human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The ozone layer protects life on

Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Depletion increases the risk of

skin cancer, cataracts, and damages to ecosystems.

11. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, enacted in 1981 in India, was aimed at regulating

and reducing air pollution. The Act provides powers to the central and state pollution control boards

to set standards, monitor air quality, and take measures to curb air pollution from various sources,

ensuring a healthier environment for citizens.

UNIT 4: WATER POLLUTION

1. Water resources and sources of water pollution

Water resources include freshwater bodies like rivers, lakes, and groundwater, as well as marine

environments. Water pollution occurs when harmful substances like chemicals, heavy metals, and

pathogens enter water bodies. These pollutants originate from sources such as industrial

discharges, agricultural runoff, sewage, and oil spills, leading to degraded water quality.
2. Various pollutants and their toxic effects

Common water pollutants include heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury), organic compounds (e.g.,

pesticides, plastics), and pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses). These pollutants can cause severe

health problems in humans, such as gastrointestinal diseases, neurological disorders, and

reproductive issues. Aquatic life is also impacted, with toxins accumulating in food chains and

altering ecosystems.

3. Portability of water

Water portability refers to the suitability of water for human consumption. For water to be potable, it

must meet certain standards for physical, chemical, and biological parameters. Contaminants such

as bacteria, toxic chemicals, or high levels of dissolved salts make water unsafe for drinking,

requiring treatments like filtration, chlorination, or UV purification to ensure safety.

4. Municipal water supply and disinfection

Municipal water supply systems are designed to provide clean and safe water to urban populations.

Water from natural sources is treated in water treatment plants to remove contaminants before

distribution. Disinfection is a key part of this process, using chemicals like chlorine or ozone to kill

pathogens and prevent waterborne diseases.

5. Characteristics of wastewater

Wastewater contains a variety of contaminants, including organic matter, chemicals, and

microorganisms. It is typically classified based on its source, such as domestic, industrial, or

agricultural. The characteristics of wastewater-such as pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and

presence of toxic substances-determine the treatment methods required before it can be safely

released into the environment.

6. Primary and secondary wastewater treatment

Primary treatment involves the physical removal of solid waste from wastewater through

sedimentation, screening, or filtration. Secondary treatment is biological, using microorganisms to

degrade organic matter. Together, these processes reduce pollutants in wastewater, preparing it for

tertiary treatments if needed, or for safe discharge back into the environment.

7. BOD and COD measurement and their significance

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) are key indicators of

water pollution. BOD measures the amount of oxygen microorganisms need to break down organic

matter, while COD measures the total quantity of oxygen required to chemically oxidize both organic

and inorganic substances. High BOD and COD levels indicate severe water pollution.

8. Rainwater harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater for later use, reducing

dependence on groundwater and municipal supply systems. This technique helps conserve water,

reduce flooding, and recharge aquifers. It is an important strategy for regions facing water scarcity,

helping to ensure sustainable water resources.

9. Watershed management

Watershed management involves the conservation and restoration of water resources within a

watershed, an area of land that drains into a common water body. Proper management aims to

maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems, control erosion, and ensure a reliable supply of clean

water for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use.

10. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, was enacted in India to prevent and

control water pollution. It empowers pollution control boards to monitor water quality, enforce

standards, and regulate the discharge of pollutants into water bodies. The Act aims to protect water

resources from contamination, safeguarding public health and the environment.