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What is air pollution and how is it measured (hint; AQI)



The major pollutants that cause air pollution are:

  1. Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10) - is emitted by vehicles, construction activities, and industrial processes.

  2. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

  3. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

  4. Carbon Monoxide (CO)

  5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

  6. Lead

  7. Ammonia (NH3)

Air Quality Index (AQI) is a numerical value used to indicate the level of air pollution in a specific location. It is calculated based on the concentration of the above air pollutants.


The AQI ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating higher levels of pollution.


AQI (0 to 500)

What does it mean?

<100

Good

100 to 200

Moderate

>200

Unhealthy

>300

Hazardous


The AQI is used to inform the public about air quality and the potential health effects of air pollution. It helps people make decisions to reduce exposure to pollutants, such as staying indoors during periods of high pollution or using protective masks when necessary.


It is important to monitor AQI levels and take appropriate actions to reduce air pollution to protect public health.



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