MrKremerScience.com

Guiding question

• How can urban air pollution be effectively managed?

SL and HL knowledge statements

8.3.1 Urban air pollution is caused by inputs from human activities to atmospheric systems, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matter.

8.3.2 Sources of primary pollutants are both natural and anthropogenic.

8.3.3 Most common air pollutants in the urban environment are either derived directly or indirectly from combustion of fossil fuels.

8.3.4 A range of different management and intervention strategies can be used to reduce urban air pollution.

8.3.5 NOx and sulfur dioxide react with water and oxygen in the air to produce nitric and sulfuric acid, resulting in acid rain.

8.3.6 Acid rain has impacts on ecology, humans and buildings.

8.3.7 Management and intervention strategies are used to reduce the impact of sulfur dioxide and NOx on ecosystems and to minimize their effects.

Knowledge statements for HL only

8.3.8 Photochemical smog is formed when sunlight acts on primary pollutants causing their chemical transformation into secondary pollutants.

8.3.9 Meteorological and topographical factors can intensify processes that cause photochemical smog formation.

8.3.10 Direct impacts of tropospheric ozone are both biological and physical.

8.3.11 Indirect impacts of tropospheric ozone include societal costs and lost economic output.

Practical activities

1. Practical 8.3.2 – Use an indicator species as a correlate for pollution in the local environment.
2. HL Practical 8.3.9 – Use statistical tools to test the significance of diurnal, seasonal, or long-term changes in urban air pollution.

Possible engagement opportunities

• Turn these into CAS activities connected to the UN SDGs.
• Investigate and debate the causes and consequences of urban air pollution in the local environment, and strategies that could be used to reduce pollution.
• Participate in citizen science air-quality projects by installing a networked weather station in the school.
• Advocate for improved walking and cycling options for the school.

Happy learning!