What are the two primary smog pollutants?

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Multiple Choice

What are the two primary smog pollutants?

Smog is driven by sunlight-triggered chemistry and haze-forming particles, with two pollutants standing out as the main components. Ground-level ozone forms when sunlight acts on precursors released from vehicles and industry, creating a reactive gas that irritates airways and reduces lung function. Particulate matter consists of tiny particles emitted directly from combustion, dust, and other sources; these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, driving inflammation and a range of health problems. Together, ozone and PM give smog its characteristic smell, haze, and the most noticeable health impacts, which is why this pairing is the best match for describing the two primary smog pollutants. Other listed substances are important air pollutants in general, but they don’t define smog in the same way as ozone and particulate matter.

Smog is driven by sunlight-triggered chemistry and haze-forming particles, with two pollutants standing out as the main components. Ground-level ozone forms when sunlight acts on precursors released from vehicles and industry, creating a reactive gas that irritates airways and reduces lung function. Particulate matter consists of tiny particles emitted directly from combustion, dust, and other sources; these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, driving inflammation and a range of health problems. Together, ozone and PM give smog its characteristic smell, haze, and the most noticeable health impacts, which is why this pairing is the best match for describing the two primary smog pollutants. Other listed substances are important air pollutants in general, but they don’t define smog in the same way as ozone and particulate matter.

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