Answer:
Sources of Sulfur Dioxide
- Sulfur dioxide present in the exhaust fumes of various vehicles is added to the atmosphere.
- Sulfur dioxide produced during the extraction of metals from various sulphurous ores in the industry is released into the atmosphere in large quantities.
- SO2 emissions from oil refineries are also adding to the environment, increasing pollution levels.
How does Sulfur Dioxide Pollution occur?
SO2 gas reacts with atmospheric oxygen, water vapour etc. to form sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid is strongly acidic in nature and harmful to living organisms. It comes down to the surface through acid rain and causes damage.
Harmful Effects of Sulfur Dioxide Pollution
(i) Eye irritation and respiratory tract damage in presence of SO2.
(ii) Asthma and other lung diseases occur due to the presence of excess SO2.
(iii) Sometimes SO2 produces killer smog which can even cause death.
(iv) SO2 disrupts ecosystem balance by forming acid rain.