Primary vs. Secondary Pollutants
Primary Pollutants
- They are directly inserted into the atmosphere.
- They are initially harmful to humans when they are released into the atmosphere
- Examples: Carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulates ("Primary & Secondary Pollutants")
- Not initially harmful to human
- After they are released, then they become toxic and fatal
- They are not directly inserted into the atmosphere
- Examples: Photochemical smog: When sunlight catalyzes the formation of oxidants and acids then they become harmful and damaging. Some other examples include: ozone, hydrocarbons, sulfuric acid, and nitrogen oxides. ("Primary & Secondary Pollutants")