There are several main types of pollution and
well-known effects of pollution which are commonly discussed. These
include smog, acid rain, the greenhouse effect, and "holes" in the
ozone layer. Each of these problems has serious implications for our health
and well-being as well as for the whole
environment.
One type of air
pollution is the release of particles
into the air from burning fuel for energy. Diesel smoke is a good example of
this particulate matter . The particles are very small pieces of
matter measuring about 2.5 microns or about .0001 inches. This type of
pollution is sometimes referred to as "black carbon"
pollution. The exhaust from burning fuels in automobiles, homes, and
industries is a major source of pollution in the air. Some authorities believe
that even the burning of wood and charcoal in fireplaces and barbeques can
release significant quanitites of soot into the air. as well as for the whole environment.