What is the primary pollutant found in vehicle emissions?

The primary pollutant found in vehicle emissions is carbon monoxide. This colorless, odorless gas is produced during the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, which power most vehicles. When fuel is burned, not all of it is converted into carbon dioxide and water; some of it, especially when the engine is not running efficiently, is emitted as carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide poses significant health risks because it interferes with the blood's ability to carry oxygen. When inhaled, it can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, even death. This pollutant is especially concerning in urban areas with high traffic, as it can accumulate in the atmosphere and adversely affect air quality.

While nitrogen dioxide, hydrocarbons, and ozone are also important air pollutants associated with vehicle emissions, they are not typically considered the primary pollutants. Nitrogen dioxide is produced from combustion processes and contributes to other environmental issues like smog and acid rain, while hydrocarbons are organic compounds that can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone when exposed to sunlight. Ozone itself is a secondary pollutant, formed by reactions between primary pollutants in the presence of sunlight. Thus, carbon monoxide stands out as the main pollutant directly associated with vehicle