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Chapter 19: Problem 1

What naturally occurring cleanser helps to remove pollutants from the atmosphere? Where does it come from? What other mechanisms also act to cleanse the atmosphere of pollutants?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Rain is a naturally occurring cleanser that comes from the evaporation-condensation cycle of water. Other mechanisms that cleanse the atmosphere of pollutants include wind, trees, and chemical reactions.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Natural Cleanser

The naturally occurring cleanser that helps remove pollutants from the atmosphere is rain. Rain cleans the atmosphere by washing out many types of pollutants.
02

Explain the Origin

Rain comes from the evaporation-condensation cycle of water. When water from bodies such as oceans, lakes, and rivers gets heated by the Sun, it evaporates becoming water vapor. This water vapor rises up into the sky where the cooler temperatures cause it to condense forming micro water droplets that join to form clouds. When the water droplets become too heavy, they fall back down as rain.
03

Identify Other Mechanisms

Apart from rain, there are several other mechanisms also acting to cleanse the atmosphere of pollutants. One is wind which helps to disperse pollutants, reducing their concentration. Trees and vegetation also play a crucial role by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Certain air pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, can be removed from the atmosphere through chemical reactions that transform them into less harmful substances.

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