1.

List the major sources of urban air pollution

Major sources of urban air pollution include wind, airplanes, volcanoes, wildfires,
agriculture, factories, vehicle exhausts, and towns and homes which create the
following primary pollutants:
- Carbon monoxide
- Sulfur dioxide
- Nitric oxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Ammonia
- Particulates
- Volatile organic compounds

These primary pollutants then lead to the formation of the following secondary
pollutants:
- Sulfur trioxide
- Sulfuric acid
- Ammonium
- Ozone
- Nitric acid
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Particulates

2. Why is photochemical smog greater in afternoons than in the mornings?

Photochemical smog is usually greater in afternoons than in mornings as song forms

as a result of a mixture of NOx and VOCs reacting in sunlight and producing ozone.
Therefore, since the sun's rays have less ultraviolet radiation early in the morning,
sunlight is greater throughout noon/early afternoon, and more smog is formed as a
result of the bigger reaction. Moreover, buildings tend to release more heat during the
afternoon contributing to the formation of additional smog.

3. Outline the effects on humans and other species of urban air pollution

Air pollution and tropospheric ozone have major effects on human health. Namely, eye
irritation, respiratory problems, asthma aggravation, bronchitis, pneumonia and
increased susceptibility to infections in humans, ex. children born and raised in areas
with high ozone levels have 15% reduction in their lung capacity. Additionally,
particulates, which are small solid particles released by exhaust fumes or poorly
maintained diesel engines, may cause serious respiratory problems and even cancer. As
for other species and ecosystems, pollution may damage crops and forests by reducing
growth and photosynthesis as ozone degrades chlorophyll and closes stomata.

4. Define and evaluate pollution management strategies for urban air pollution

There are several pollution management strategies for urban air pollution. For example,
the reduced use of private vehicles and more use of public transport in countries such
as Greece and Mexico, as well as control of vehicle conditions and the enforcement of
engine maintenance standards, lead to a reduction in lead and sulfur in fuels, as well as
catalytic converters. Seeing as most urban pollution comes from transport, particularly
private cars, and 80% of the car pollution comes from 30% of cars, these regulations are
highly effective. However, restrictions and tools can make car use more expensive and
there may also be cultural resistance to public transport. Ultimately, regulating and
enforcing management strategies to reduce urban pollution is necessary, however
monitoring and regulating is complicated and expensive.