Common Air Pollutants

Ozone Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms. It comes from motor vehicle exhaust and industrial transmissions. It can irritate lung airways and cause inflammation. Repeated exposure can cause permanent lung problems. Some cities have reduced local emissions to help control ozone, and still more have started to use cleaner gasoline. One of the chief causes for concern is the health problems that ozone can cause for many people. Particulate Matter Particulate matter …

…to osteoporosis and reproductive disorders. Excessive exposure to lead can cause seizures, mental retardation, behavioral disorders, memory problems, and mood changes. EPA set up monitoring stations across the country to monitor the levels of lead and other pollutants in the air. Lead raises many reasons for concern. It particularly affects young children and infants and lead deposits on soil and water and harms animals and fish. These are only some of the reasons for concern.