How does sulfur dioxide enter the atmosphere?

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How does sulfur dioxide enter the atmosphere?

Atmospheric sulfur is found in the form of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and enters the atmosphere in three ways: from the decomposition of organic molecules, from volcanic activity and geothermal vents, and from the burning of fossil fuels by humans.

How does sulfuric acid get into the rain?

Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) are emitted into the atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents. The SO2 and NOX react with water, oxygen and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. These then mix with water and other materials before falling to the ground.

What does sulfur dioxide form when it reacts with water?

Sulfur dioxide, like the oxides of carbon and nitrogen, reacts with water to form sulfuric acid (Equation 6).

Why is sulfur dioxide in exhaust gases?

These gases, especially SO2, are emitted by the burning of fossil fuels — coal, oil, and diesel — or other materials that contain sulfur. Sulfur dioxide is also a natural byproduct of volcanic activity. Like nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide can create secondary pollutants once released into the air.

What are the major sources of sulfur?

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a gas primarily emitted from fossil fuel combustion at power plants and other industrial facilities, as well as fuel combustion in mobile sources such as locomotives, ships, and other equipment.

Which foods are high in sulfur?

Foods with Sulfur

  • Turkey, beef, eggs, fish, and chicken.
  • Nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes.
  • Chickpeas, couscous, eggs, lentils, oats, turkey and walnuts.
  • Allium Vegetables.
  • Cruciferous Vegetables.
  • Whole Grains.
  • Leafy Green Vegetables.

How do you get rid of sulfur dioxide in the air?

Reducing Pollution One option is to use coal that contains less sulfur. Another option is to “wash” the coal to remove some of the sulfur. The power plant can also install equipment called scrubbers, which remove the sulfur dioxide from gases leaving the smokestack.

What problem does Sulphur dioxide cause?

Sulfur dioxide affects the respiratory system, particularly lung function, and can irritate the eyes. Sulfur dioxide irritates the respiratory tract and increases the risk of tract infections. It causes coughing, mucus secretion and aggravates conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.