Other Effects of SO2 and NOX

 

Other Effects of SO₂ and NO_X

Visibility

In the atmosphere, SO₂ and NO_X gases can be transformed into sulfate and nitrate particles, while some NO_X can also react with other pollutants to form ozone. These particles and ozone make the air hazy and difficult to see through. This affects our enjoyment of national parks that we visit for the scenic view such as Shenandoah and the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Human Health

Walking in acid rain, or even swimming in a lake affected by acid rain, is no more dangerous to humans than walking in normal rain or swimming in non-acidic lakes. However, when the pollutants that cause acid rain —SO₂ and NO_X, as well as sulfate and nitrate particles— are in the air, they can be harmful to humans.

SO₂ and NO_X react in the atmosphere to form fine sulfate and nitrate particles that people can inhale into their lungs.  Many scientific studies have shown a relationship between these particles and effects on heart function, such as heart attacks resulting in death for people with increased heart disease risk, and effects on lung function, such as breathing difficulties for people with asthma.

Learn more about:

• Sulfur Dioxide
• Nitrogen Oxides
• Particulate Matter (PM)
• Asthma

In addition, NO_X emissions also contribute to ground level ozone, which is also harmful to human health.

• Learn more about Ground Level Ozone