Smog

Science

Definition

Smog is a type of air pollution that forms when vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants react with sunlight. Photochemical smog contains ground-level ozone and other harmful compounds, while industrial smog results from burning fossil fuels that release sulfur dioxide and particulate matter.

Examples

  • The brownish haze over Los Angeles caused by vehicle exhaust and sunlight
  • London's Great Smog of 1952 caused by coal burning that killed thousands
  • Beijing's winter smog from coal heating and industrial emissions

Related Terms

Air pressure Acid rain Ozone depletion Fossil fuels

Study This Concept

Practice smog with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 7: Atmospheric Pollution