Natural Influences on the Atmosphere
Many natural events and human activities impact the quality and composition of the atmosphere. Let’s begin by looking at some natural events that can impact the atmosphere. Click through the following images to learn more.
When volcanoes erupt, large amounts of ash, water vapor, sulfur compounds, and nitrogen compounds are sent into the atmosphere. Sulfur compounds from volcanoes can form a layer in the atmosphere that lasts for months and temporarily causes scattering of incoming sunlight. This sometimes leads to global decreases in temperatures after major volcanic eruptions.
Wildfires are another natural event that can impact the atmosphere. Fires emit particles and gases that are normally considered pollutants into the atmosphere. One of the harmful gases emitted by wildfires is carbon monoxide, a gas that is deadly to humans and animals.
Dust storms, which are characterized as strong gusts of winds that blow loose sand and dust, also impact the atmosphere, making it dangerous to breathe the air and affecting visibility for miles.
Radon is a natural source of atmospheric pollution. It is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas found in some types of soil and rock. It can seep into homes and buildings. Long-term exposure leads to lung cancer.
