GCSE Combined Science revision · Chemistry: organic, analysis, atmosphere and resources

Atmospheric pollutants

The idea

Burning fuels releases carbon dioxide, water vapour, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and soot (particulates). Carbon monoxide is a toxic, colourless and odourless gas from incomplete combustion; it reduces the blood's capacity to carry oxygen. Sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen cause respiratory problems and acid rain. Particulates cause global dimming and health problems.

  1. Name the pollutant.
  2. State its source.
  3. State its effect.

Watch out Carbon monoxide comes from incomplete combustion; sulfur dioxide comes from sulfur impurities in fuels.

See it worked

Worked example

Explain why carbon monoxide is dangerous.

  1. It is colourless and odourless, so it is hard to detect.
  2. It reduces the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen.

Answer People cannot see or smell it, and it reduces the blood's capacity to carry oxygen

Your turn

Question 1Calculator allowed1 mark

Which pollutant causes acid rain?

Choose one
Question 2Calculator allowed1 mark

Particulates in the air cause:

Choose one
Question 3Calculator allowed1 mark

Incomplete combustion happens when:

Choose one

In past papers

32 official questions in 26 papers since 2018. The latest:

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Independent practice for AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy (8464), not endorsed by AQA.

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