Smog
What does the word “smog” mean?
Poor air quality with reduced visibility caused by pollution
Which body system does smog affect the most?
The respiratory system
Name one human activity that causes smog
Driving cars, factories, burning fossil fuels, using paints, or burning wood
What does smog look like?
Hazy, smokey fog that looks yellowish-brown
Name three short-term health effect of smog
Coughing, wheezing, asthma attacks, eye/nose/throat irritation, headaches, or dizziness
How do wildfires make smog worse?
They release more smoke and particles into the air
When do smog days happen the most?
On hot, humid days or cold winter days
Who is most at risk from smog?
Kids, older people, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, or people spending lots of time outside
How does climate change increase smog days?
More sunny days and higher temperatures make chemical reactions faster and cause more wildfires
What traps polluted air close to the ground?
Temperature inversion: warm air sits on top of cool air and traps pollution
Name one long-term effect of smog
Chronic lung disease, heart disease, strokes, cancer, or neurological problems
Name one main part of summer smog
Ground-level ozone, nitrogen oxides, or volatile organic compounds
How does smog affect the environment?
It can cause acid rain, damage crops, and make the air hazy
What serious things can happen because of bad smog?
People can end up in the hospital, miss school or work, or die early
Name one main part of winter smog
Particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, or volatile organic compounds