Types of Chemical Pollution

The modern world runs on chemicals of all kinds. Some chemicals are harmless while others are deadly to humans. The problem is that many of these chemicals are improperly handled and disposed of, which causes harmful and unecessary exposure to animals and humans. Once they enter the environment, many of them do not break down and pollute the area for many years. Harmful fumes as well as contaminated water systems can prove lethal to humans. Many chemicals are odorless and we may not even recognize their presence.

Detergent
People use detergent as a common cleaning component without noticing potentially dangerous chemicals. If waste water goes untreated and enters into the water system, the amounts of detergent can grow rapidly. Detergent in small amounts is not harmful but in large quantities, it can cause sickness. Detergent is not biodegradable so it will stay in the environment forever.

Water Pollution
Water pollution is getting worse because there are so many chemicals that can enter the water source in so many different ways. Some of the ways that chemicals can enter the water are accidental spills, household waste, improper water treatments, run-off from agriculture and illegal corporate waste practices that cause contaminated water. Chemical pollution of the water is dangerous to all life on the planet. Man as well as plants and animals are at risk when chemicals spill into the water, which can pose health risks and possible death.

Insecticide
Insecticides have a long-standing use for many years. Dangerous insecticides such as DDT went unchecked until studies finally proved the harmful environmental effects. Now, many of these chemicals have strict regulatory usage or are no longer legal for use. Unfortunately, not all countries regulate or outlaw the use of these insecticides, which leaves some ecosystems susceptible. Ingestion of insecticides can cause many diseases including cancer.

Air Pollution
Currently, air pollution is one of the most dangerous problems. Air pollution requires rapid action as it can cause the most damage to the environment and inhabitants. Air pollution develops due to carbon emissions from man-made machines that operate with fossil fuels. This includes 99% of cars around the world, lawn mowers, factories and many other types of machines.

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Define Chemical Pollution

Definition
Chemical pollution occurs when chemicals resulting from human activities enter the environment, contaminating air, water or soil. Acid rain, greenhouse gases and ozone are all examples of chemical pollution.

Chemicals That Cause Water Pollution
Pesticides and fertilizers that contain nitrates and phosphates are a source of chemicals that cause water pollution. These chemicals seep into the groundwater and mix with runoff moving to lakes and rivers.

Industrial emissions can also cause water pollution. An example is mercury in waste water from paper manufacturers. Instead of remaining inert as expected, the mercury reacted to bacteria in the water and changed to methyl mercury. Now, mercury levels in fish such as swordfish can pose dangers to people who eat it.

Chemicals that Cause Air Pollution
A major source of chemical pollution in the air is fossil fuels burned by utilities, industries and motor vehicles.

Sulfur dioxide is produced when coal is burned. It is an ingredient of acid rain and can cause lung damage to people who breathe large amounts of it.

Nitrogen oxides are a byproduct of motor vehicles such as cars, trucks and airplanes. These oxides are also an ingredient of acid rain and can cause lung damage to people over time.

Other chemicals that cause air pollution include ozone, carbon monoxide and lead.

Chemical Pollution in Soil
Chemical pollution in soil can be caused by overuse of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Construction and demolition sites are also sources of soil pollution, as are mines, landfills and foundries.

Preventing Pollution
Individuals can help prevent chemical pollution by making simple changes in their habits and activities. Some ways you can prevent chemical pollution include buying only the chemicals you need, buying the least harmful or least hazardous products, mixing and applying pesticides at the proper concentration and using alternative fuels.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_6027793_define-chemical-pollution.html