AP Environmental Science Unit 7.5: Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Pollution

Largely unregulated pollution that poses immediate health risks, often higher indoors than outdoors.

Biomass

Organic materials such as wood and animal dung burned for heating and cooking, primarily in developing countries.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Tiny solid or liquid particles in the air that can cause health problems when inhaled.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

A colorless, odorless gas resulting from incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels, asphyxiating when inhaled.

Asphyxiant

A substance that can cause suffocation by displacing oxygen or binding to hemoglobin.

Asbestos

A fibrous silicate mineral previously used for insulation that can cause lung disease when inhaled.

Radon-222

A colorless, odorless radioactive gas that is a decay product of uranium found in soil.

Formaldehyde

A VOC used in building materials known to cause respiratory irritation and is a carcinogen.

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

A condition where occupants experience health effects linked to time spent in a building, without a specific illness identified.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, found in many household products.

Lead

A toxic heavy metal historically found in paint, causing serious health effects, especially in children.

Biological Pollutants

Natural substances like mold and pollen that can cause allergic reactions and asthma.

Inadequate Ventilation

Insufficient air exchange with outdoor air, contributing to health issues in tightly sealed buildings.

Chemical Contaminants

High concentrations of harmful substances like VOCs in the air, often from building materials and equipment.

Repairing Ventilation

A method to improve indoor air quality by ensuring adequate fresh air exchange.

Encapsulation

A method of asbestos remediation that seals it to prevent fiber release, safer than removal.

Health Impact of CO

At low levels, causes headaches and nausea; at high levels, can be fatal due to asphyxiation.

Health Impact of asbestos

Causes lung scarring (asbestosis) and cancer (mesothelioma) when fibers are inhaled.

Radon Entry Mechanism

Radon gas seeps into homes through foundation cracks, basement walls, or gaps around sump pumps.

VOCs in Cleaners

Common household items like cleaners and air fresheners that are sources of indoor VOC pollution.

Neurotoxin

A substance that can cause damage to the central nervous system, like lead.

High Humidity

Conditions that promote mold growth, often due to water leaks or poor ventilation.

Health Impact of VOCs

Can cause respiratory issues, irritation, and are linked to cancer.

Premises for Lead Exposure

Chipping old paint and lead-contaminated dust, posing risks, especially to children.

Improper CO Confusion

The mistake of confusing carbon monoxide (CO) with carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is not toxic at typical levels.

Radon Source Misconception

The incorrect belief that radon comes from human activities instead of being a naturally occurring gas.

'New Car Smell' Awareness

The realization that the smell is from off-gassing VOCs, not cleanliness.

Key Health Factors in SBS

Includes inadequate ventilation and high chemical or biological contaminant levels.