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Atmosphere: Layers, Pollution, and Solutions

Explore the layers of our atmosphere, outdoor air pollutants, smog types, acid deposition, harmful effects, prevention methods, and how lichens can signal air quality issues. Discover the importance of the ozone layer and the impacts of air pollution on our environment.

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Atmosphere: Layers, Pollution, and Solutions

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  1. Air Resources and Air Pollution Our Atmosphere

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  4. STRUCTURE AND SCIENCE OF THE ATMOSPHERE • The atmosphere consists of several layers with different temperatures, pressures, and compositions. Figure 19-2

  5. Atmospheric pressure (millibars) Temperature Pressure Thermosphere Mesopause Heating via ozone Mesosphere Altitude (kilometers) Altitude (miles) Stratopause Stratosphere Tropopause Ozone “layer” Heating from the earth Troposphere Pressure = 1,000 millibars at ground level (Sea level) Temperature (˚C) Fig. 19-2, p. 440

  6. STRUCTURE AND SCIENCE OF THE ATMOSPHERE • The atmosphere’s innermost layer (troposphere) is made up mostly of nitrogen and oxygen, with smaller amounts of water vapor and CO2. • The ozone layer (stratosphere) filters out most of the sun’s UV radiation that is harmful to us and most other species.

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  9. Chapter Overview Questions • What layers are found in the atmosphere? • What are the major outdoor air pollutants, and where do they come from? • What are two types of smog? • What is acid deposition, and how can it be reduced? • What are the harmful effects of air pollutants? • How can we prevent and control air pollution?

  10. Core Case Study: When Is a Lichen Like a Canary? • Lichens can warn us of bad air because they absorb it as a source of nourishment. Figure 19-1

  11. Core Case Study: When Is a Lichen Like a Canary? • Some lichen species are sensitive to specific air-polluting chemicals. • After Chernobyl, more than 70,000 reindeer had to be killed because they ate highly radioactive lichens. • Because lichens are widespread, long-lived, and anchored in place, they can help track pollution to its source.

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