What effect can increased temperatures due to climate change have on smog formation?

What effect can increased temperatures due to climate change have on smog formation?

• A. It can decrease smog formation
• B. It can lead to more severe smog formation
• C. It has no relationship to smog formation
• D. It can completely eliminate smog

Answer: (B)

Increased temperatures due to climate change can lead to more severe smog formation primarily because higher temperatures can enhance the chemical reactions that create ozone. Smog is typically a mixture of air pollutants, including ozone, which is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides interact in the presence of sunlight. Warmer temperatures increase the rate of these reactions, thus elevating ozone levels in the lower atmosphere. Additionally, heat can contribute to stagnant air conditions, which prevents pollutants from dispersing, leading to higher concentrations of smog in urban areas. This relationship shows how climate factors, such as rising temperatures, can directly influence air quality and exacerbate health and environmental issues. As such, the correct answer reflects the understanding that intensifying climate conditions can worsen the problems associated with air pollution, particularly smog formation.

Increased temperatures due to climate change can lead to more severe smog formation primarily because higher temperatures can enhance the chemical reactions that create ozone. Smog is typically a mixture of air pollutants, including ozone, which is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides interact in the presence of sunlight.

Warmer temperatures increase the rate of these reactions, thus elevating ozone levels in the lower atmosphere. Additionally, heat can contribute to stagnant air conditions, which prevents pollutants from dispersing, leading to higher concentrations of smog in urban areas. This relationship shows how climate factors, such as rising temperatures, can directly influence air quality and exacerbate health and environmental issues. As such, the correct answer reflects the understanding that intensifying climate conditions can worsen the problems associated with air pollution, particularly smog formation.