What is the Difference Between Classical Smog and Photochemical Smog?

The main difference between classical smog and photochemical smog lies in their formation processes, components, and climatic conditions. Here is a comparison of the two types of smog:

Classical Smog:

• Occurs in cool, humid climates.
• Components: Smoke, fog, and sulfur dioxide.
• Nature: Reducing in nature.
• Formation: Results from natural incidents, such as fog or haze intensified by smoke or other atmospheric pollutants.

Photochemical Smog:

• Occurs in dry, sunny climates.
• Components: PAN, acrolein, ozone, formaldehyde, nitric oxide.
• Nature: Oxidizing in nature.
• Formation: Results from smoke coming from automobiles and factories.

In summary, classical smog forms due to natural incidents in cool, humid climates, while photochemical smog forms due to human activities in dry, sunny climates.

Comparative Table: Classical Smog vs Photochemical Smog

The main differences between classical smog and photochemical smog are their formation processes, components, and climatic conditions. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:

Classical smog, also known as reducing smog, is caused by the burning of coal and oil, and is made up of a mixture of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and smoke. It occurs in cool, humid climates. On the other hand, photochemical smog is formed due to the reaction of sunlight with certain chemicals in the atmosphere, such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It occurs in dry and sunny climates and is mainly composed of ozone and nitrogen dioxide.