Volatile Organic Hydrocarbons
Definition
Volatile organic hydrocarbons (VOCs) are organic compounds that easily evaporate at room temperature and can be found in various household products, such as paints, cleaning agents, and solvents. They contribute to air pollution and can have harmful effects on human health.
Analogy
Imagine VOCs as invisible fumes coming out of a bottle of nail polish remover when you open it. Just like these fumes quickly spread in the air, VOCs easily evaporate into the atmosphere from everyday products.
Related terms
Photochemical Smog: A type of air pollution formed by the reaction between sunlight, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds.
Ozone Depletion: The thinning of the ozone layer due to the release of certain chemicals, including some volatile organic hydrocarbons.
Off-Gassing: The release of VOCs from materials or products into the surrounding air over time.
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