Air Pollution MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Primary air pollutant from incomplete combustion

Formula

NONE

Step-by-step solution

1. Incomplete combustion occurs when there is insufficient oxygen to fully oxidize carbon to carbon dioxide. 2. Under low-oxygen conditions, carbon atoms in organic matter form carbon monoxide instead of carbon dioxide. 3. Therefore, carbon monoxide is the primary air pollutant formed due to incomplete combustion of organic matter. Answer: D

Explanation

Carbon monoxide is produced when carbon-containing organic fuels or matter undergo incomplete combustion due to insufficient oxygen. During complete combustion, carbon fully oxidizes to form carbon dioxide, but limited oxygen availability leads to carbon monoxide formation. Therefore, carbon monoxide is the primary air pollutant associated with incomplete combustion.

Why the other options are wrong

A) Methane is produced primarily by anaerobic decomposition of organic matter. B) Sulphur dioxide is formed by the combustion of sulfur-containing fossil fuels. C) Ozone is a secondary pollutant formed by chemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.

Shortcut

Incomplete combustion always produces Carbon Monoxide (CO).

Common mistake

Confusing carbon monoxide with methane or assuming incomplete combustion primarily produces carbon dioxide.