Hydrocarbons contribute to air pollution in several ways, mainly because they can react in the atmosphere or release harmful substances when burned.
1. Incomplete combustion
- When hydrocarbons are burned as fuel (in cars, industries, or power plants), sometimes not all carbon is fully oxidized.
- This produces carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous gas, and particulate matter (soot).
2. Formation of ground-level ozone
- Hydrocarbons released into the air can react with nitrogen oxides (NOx) in sunlight to form smog or ground-level ozone.
- This can irritate the respiratory system and damage crops and buildings.
3. Release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Some hydrocarbons evaporate easily and become VOCs, which are harmful when inhaled and also contribute to smog formation.
4. Greenhouse gas contribution
- Hydrocarbons, especially methane, are potent greenhouse gases.
- Their release contributes to global warming.
In short:
Hydrocarbons pollute the air by producing toxic gases, smog, soot, and greenhouse gases, especially when burned incompletely or released into the atmosphere.