Primary pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter are major contributors to air pollution. Sink and control measures for these pollutants are important to reduce their impact on human health and the environment. Here are some examples of sink and control measures for these pollutants:
Carbon monoxide (CO):
Sink: CO is eventually oxidized to carbon dioxide (CO2) by reactions with hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere.
Control: The most effective way to control CO emissions is through reducing emissions from transportation sources, such as improving vehicle technology, increasing public transportation options, and promoting non-motorized transportation.
Nitrogen oxides (NOx):
Sink: NOx can be removed from the atmosphere through reactions with hydroxyl radicals and rainwater.
Control: Some methods for reducing NOx emissions include using low-NOx combustion technologies, implementing emission standards for vehicles and industry, and promoting the use of cleaner fuels.
Hydrocarbons (HC):
Sink: HC can be removed from the atmosphere through reactions with hydroxyl radicals and rainwater.
Control: Controlling HC emissions involves reducing emissions from transportation sources, such as improving vehicle technology, implementing emission standards, and promoting the use of cleaner fuels.
Sulfur oxides (SOx):
Sink: SOx can be removed from the atmosphere through reactions with hydroxyl radicals and rainwater.
Control: Reducing SOx emissions involves using low-sulfur fuels, implementing flue gas desulfurization systems in industrial processes, and promoting the use of clean energy sources.
Particulate matter (PM):
Sink: PM can be removed from the atmosphere through wet deposition (rain and snow) and dry deposition (settling onto surfaces).
Control: Methods for reducing PM emissions include using particulate filters in industrial processes, improving combustion efficiency in transportation and industry, and promoting cleaner energy sources.