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Health and Environment for SQA National 5 Chemistry







This page covers the following topics:
1. Nitrous oxides
2. Sulphur dioxide
3. Carbon monoxide
4. Renewable energy
Nitrous oxides (NOx) are one product of incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, for example in cars. They can lower the pH of precipitation.

Sulphur dioxide results from combustion of an impure hydrocarbon, it can also lead to acid rain.

Carbon monoxide is produced from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons, this means that even completely pure fuels may produce some carbon monoxide on combustion.

Hydrocarbons derived from crude oil are not a renewable source of energy, this means that if crude oil runs out we can't make more. In order to sustain energy production for future generations renewable sources of energy are researched and used where possible.
1
Why does incomplete combustion take place?
If there is not a sufficient oxygen supply so some of the hydrocarbon does not react fully with oxygen.
2
Provide an environmental problem caused by nitrous oxides.
acid rain
3
What type of car fuel results in more nitrous oxide production?
diesel
4
How do solar panels work?
Solar energy from the Sun hits solar panels as light energy. Solar cells are able to convert this light energy directly to electrical energy. Solar panels use light energy to heat water, these are often used in buildings to run the heating systems of that building.
5
What is the main problem caused by CO? How does it cause this?
Respiratory problems as it is a poison that binds to haemoglobin, this is the molecule that carries oxygen around your body so if haemoglobin can't function the body is starved of oxygen. It also has potential to cause cancer.
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