Photochemical smog is most closely associated with an increase in which health issue?

Photochemical smog is most closely associated with an increase in which health issue?

• A. Skin cancer
• B. Heart disease
• C. Respiratory problems
• D. Hearing loss

Answer: (C)

Photochemical smog forms when sunlight drives reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, creating ozone. Ozone is a powerful respiratory irritant that inflames airways, reduces lung function, and triggers coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This direct effect on the lungs makes respiratory problems the health issue most closely linked to photochemical smog. Skin cancer is mainly tied to UV radiation from the sun, not smog pollutants; while some air pollutants can affect the heart, the strongest connection here is with respiratory irritation and disease. Hearing loss is not associated with photochemical smog.

Photochemical smog forms when sunlight drives reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, creating ozone. Ozone is a powerful respiratory irritant that inflames airways, reduces lung function, and triggers coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This direct effect on the lungs makes respiratory problems the health issue most closely linked to photochemical smog. Skin cancer is mainly tied to UV radiation from the sun, not smog pollutants; while some air pollutants can affect the heart, the strongest connection here is with respiratory irritation and disease. Hearing loss is not associated with photochemical smog.