Question

Which of the following are examples of primary pollutants?
(This question has multiple correct options)
A.$\text{S}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$
B.$\text{C}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$
C.Hydrocarbon
D.$\text{CO}$

Answer 1

Hint:In the above question, it is asked which of the pollutants are primary pollutants. Primary pollutants are the one which are exhausted from the sources directly.

Complete answer:
Primary pollutants are the type of pollutants that are directly emitted into the surrounding. They differ from secondary pollutants as secondary pollutants are formed in the atmosphere itself, whereas primary pollutants do not. Primary pollutants can be emitted from many sources which includes cars, coal based power plants, natural gas power plants, biomass burning, natural forest fires, volcanoes, and many more.
Primary pollutants include oxides of nitrogen and sulphur, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, hydrocarbon, mercury and many more.
Carbon dioxide is not considered as a pollutant because it does not harm our health but it is a proven greenhouse gas. It has an ability to absorb infrared radiation that is escaping from the surface of the earth causing the atmosphere to warm up.
Since, $\text{S}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$, $\text{CO}$ and hydrocarbon are the primary pollutants.

So, option A, C and D are the correct options.

Note:
Primary pollutants led to depletion of the ozone layer. CFCs have caused a gradual decrease in ozone levels throughout the stratosphere. However, air currents have resulted in increased accumulation at the poles, leading to increase in thinning in these regions during the spring. This thinning is commonly referred to as a hole in the ozone layer.
Volcanic eruptions and lava can cause immediate danger to the surrounding area. The extremely hot lava can burn houses and forests very rapidly. The ash which is generated can also make air polluted and be transferred over long distances by the wind.