[Science Form 1] Harmful Effects

1. Health Problems

• Air pollution in the form of soot and dust not only irritates our eyes, but affects our lungs and respiratory system as well. Sometimes, it can even cause lung cancer. If carbon monoxide from vehicles is absorbed into our blood, it prevents our blood from absorbing oxygen. This will cause headaches and even brain damage. Some people die from carbon monoxide inhalation. Lead particles in the air, which are caused by flaking paint, can result in high blood pressure, or worse, brain damage in children.

2. Acid Rain

• Sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen dissolve in rainwater to form acid rain, which not only destroys trees in the forests, but also causes serious damage to property, animals and vegetation. Acid rain causes fish to die as they cannot live in acidic water. It also causes corrosion of buildings and structures such as bridges and fences.

3. Thinning Of The Ozone Layer

• The thinning of the ozone layer is caused by chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compounds, which are relesed into the air through the use of air-conditioning, aerosol sprays and refrigerators. When the ozone is thin, less ultraviolet rays will be absorbed by the ozone, causing more ultraviolet rays reaching the earth. Exposure to too much ultraviolet rays can cause disease like skin cancers and eye cataracts. Ultraviolet rays also kill organisms that are useful to humans, and cause damage to crops and plants.

4. Greenhouse Effect

• The greenhouse effect occurs when carbon dioxide trapped in the atmosphere prevents heat from the earth from escaping into space. This causes rising temperatures on Earth. The melting of the ice caps in the polar region and global warming are the results of the greenhouse effect. When these happen, flood may occur in low-lying areas and some places may experience droughts.