Practice AP Environmental Science questions on indoor air pollutants, radon, carbon monoxide, particulates, VOCs, formaldehyde, lead, and health.
In many parts of the world, biomass like peat, wood, and animal waste is burned indoors for cooking and home heating. Combustion of these fuels releases harmful household air pollutants that pose a health threat to billions of people, mostly in less developed countries.
Discuss one reason children under the age of five are at a greater risk than adults for illnesses linked to household air pollutants.
In more developed countries, indoor air pollution is also a problem. Common indoor air pollutants in developed countries include:
- asbestos
- radon
- mold
Discuss one reason children under the age of five are at a greater risk than adults for illnesses linked to household air pollutants.
(l point for correct discussion of why children under the age of five are at a greater risk)
- Children have an underdeveloped or less-developed immune systems leading to a greater risk of illness following exposure.
- Children have a lower body mass leading to a higher relative dose of air pollution.
- Children spend more time indoors leading to higher exposure to air pollution.
- Children have smaller respiratory systems (narrow airways) so mild inflammation may cause more severe respiratory distress.
In more developed countries, indoor air pollution is also a problem. Common indoor air pollutants in developed countries include:
- asbestos
- radon
- mold
Choose TWO of the three common indoor air pollutants (asbestos, radon, mold) listed above and complete the following table.
Identify a source for each indoor air pollutant.
(2 points; 1 point for correct identification of a source of each indoor air pollutant chosen)