Question

Major aerosol pollutant in jet plane emission is :
A) Sulphur dioxide
B) Carbon monoxide
C) Methane
D) Fluorocarbon

Answer 1

Tiny atmospheric particles, i.e., aerosols, are suspended in the atmosphere. They can be both solid and liquid.

Complete Answer:
Air pollution is defined as the introduction of pollutants, organic molecules, or other unsafe materials into Earth’s atmosphere.

Option A) : Sulphur dioxide - Its largest source is the burning of fossil fuels. It is a colourless, acidic and poisonous gas, with a suffocating pungent smell. Even in very low concentrations, it can cause respiratory diseases. Thus, it is the incorrect option.

Option B) : Carbon monoxide - It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and toxic air pollutant—is produced in the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels, such as gasoline, natural gas, oil, coal, and wood.Thus, it is the incorrect option.

Option C) : Methane - Waste deposits in landfills create methane. It is extremely combustible and may form an explosive and volatile concoction with air. Methane is also an asphyxiant (asphyxiant can cause unconsciousness or death by suffocation). It is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil.Thus, this is the incorrect option.

Option D) : Fluorocarbon - Earth’s ozone layer is diminishing because of the presence of chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons in the atmosphere. Fluorocarbons contain only carbon and fluorine. They are used as - anaesthetics, refrigerants, solvents, fluoropolymers, etc.
Aerosols are released into air, in the form of vapour. Main source of aerosols is the emission of jet planes, where fluorocarbons are used. Thus, this is the Correct option.

Hence the correct answer is option ‘D’.

Note: High air pollution levels can lead to an increased risk of heart attack, coughing and respiratory problems, irritation in eyes, heart problems, lung complications, etc. Ozone is responsible for shielding us from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. CFCs deplete and harm the ozone layer, in the higher atmosphere.