9. What is the difference between smog and fog. Give two examples effecrs of smog.

Difference Between Smog and Fog

1. Definition and Composition:

• Fog: Fog is a weather phenomenon where tiny water droplets are suspended in the air near the ground, reducing visibility. It occurs when the air near the ground cools down to the dew point temperature, causing water vapor to condense.
• Smog: Smog is a type of air pollution that results from a mixture of smoke and fog. It occurs when pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter react with sunlight.

2. Composition and Causes:

• Fog: Fog is primarily composed of water droplets. It forms naturally due to atmospheric conditions such as temperature inversions and high humidity.
• Smog: Smog contains pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter. It forms due to human activities like vehicular emissions, industrial processes, and agricultural activities.

3. Visibility:

• Fog: Fog reduces visibility by scattering light. It can make it difficult to see beyond a short distance, impacting transportation and daily activities.
• Smog: Smog also reduces visibility, but it does so by combining with fog, making it even more hazardous. The presence of pollutants in smog can further reduce visibility and create a haze over urban areas.

Examples of Effects of Smog:

1. Health Effects:

   • Smog can exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis due to the inhalation of pollutants.
   • Prolonged exposure to smog can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and respiratory infections.
   • Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of smog.

2. Environmental Impact:

   • Smog can harm plants by interfering with photosynthesis and damaging leaf tissues.
   • It can also lead to acid rain when pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with moisture in the atmosphere, causing damage to soil, water bodies, and vegetation.
   • Smog contributes to the formation of ozone in the lower atmosphere, which is harmful to both human health and the environment.

In summary, while fog is a natural weather phenomenon composed of water droplets, smog is a type of air pollution resulting from the interaction of pollutants with fog, leading to adverse effects on health and the environment.