Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the air, such as pollutants and contaminants, that can negatively impact human health, ecosystems, and the environment.
Particulate matter refers to tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air. These particles can come from various sources like dust, smoke, or vehicle emissions.
Acid rain is a type of precipitation that contains high levels of acidic compounds due to air pollution. It can have detrimental effects on plants, aquatic life, and infrastructure.
Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in Earth's stratosphere caused by certain chemicals released into the atmosphere. This depletion allows more harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun to reach the Earth's surface.