Ozone

♤ It occurs naturally in the upper layers of the atmosphere.

♤ This important gas shields the earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.

♤ However, at the ground level, it is a pollutant with highly toxic effects.

♤ Vehicles and industries are the major source of groundlevel ozone emissions.

♤ Ozone makes our eyes itch, burn, and water. It lowers our resistance to cold and pneumonia.

♤ Nitrogen oxide (Nox)

♤ It causes smog and acid rain. It is produced from burning fuels including petrol, diesel, and coal.

♤ Nitrogen oxide can make children susceptible to respiratory diseases in winters.

Suspended particulate matter (SPM)

♤ It consists of solids in the air in the form of smoke, dust, and vapour that can remain suspended for extended periods and is also the main source of haze which reduces visibility.

♤ The finer of these particles, when breathed in can lodge in our lungs and cause lung damage and respiratory problems.