Photochemical Smog (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Exam Questions

6 mins6 questions
11 mark

Which of the following is not a characteristic of photochemical smog?

  • It is formed when primary pollutants, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic hydrocarbons, react with heat and sunlight.  

  • It produces secondary pollutants such as tropospheric ozone, aldehydes, and peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs).

  • It is often seen as a brown or grey haze over urban areas.

  • It is a thick, yellowish fog created by the burning of fossil fuels.

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21 mark

Which of the following is not involved in the formation of photochemical smog?

  • The reaction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight

  • The conversion of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) into nitric acid (HNO₃) through reaction with water vapor

  • The production of peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs) from VOCs and NOx emissions

  • The formation of ozone (O₃) in the troposphere due to the interaction of NO₂ and sunlight

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31 mark

Which of the following strategies would be least effective in reducing photochemical smog?

  • Implementing stricter emissions standards for vehicles to reduce nitrogen oxide and VOC emissions

  • Increasing urban green spaces and planting more trees to improve air quality

  • Expanding the use of high-efficiency wood stoves and open-fire burning for residential heating

  • Introducing policies to encourage public transportation, biking, and walking to reduce vehicle emissions

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41 mark

 Which of the following is least likely to be a long-term health effect of prolonged exposure to photochemical smog?

  • Chronic respiratory illnesses  

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases

  • Strengthened immune response to airborne pathogens

  • Development of neurological disorders

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51 mark

The frequency and severity of smog depend on the local topography, climate conditions, population density, and what other factor?

  • Time of day

  • The amount of fossil fuel use in an area

  • High urban ozone areas

  • Low levels of insolation

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61 mark

Which of the following is a common health effect associated with long-term exposure to photochemical smog?

  • Increased bone density

  • Reduced lung function and aggravated respiratory conditions

  • Enhanced night vision

  • Decreased sensitivity to allergens

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