APES Objectives – Unit 7

Summary

Unit 7, “Atmospheric Pollution,” focuses on air quality and its effects. It identifies the sources of air pollutants from fossil fuel combustion, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, and their effects. The unit explains the formation of photochemical smog and the conditions of a thermal inversion that can trap pollution near the ground. It also details sources of indoor air pollutants, including carbon monoxide, radon, and VOCs from human-made sources. The unit presents methods for reducing air pollutants, such as catalytic converters and scrubbers. Finally, it discusses the causes and environmental impacts of acid rain and the effects of noise pollution on human health and wildlife. This unit accounts for 7-10% of the AP Exam.