Which of the following can trap pollutants at ground level and cause dangerous smog?

• A. Ozone depletion
• B. Temperature inversion
• C. Acid rain
• D. Photosynthesis

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of temperature inversion. Temperature inversion occurs when a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from dispersing into the atmosphere. This can lead to the accumulation of pollutants at ground level, causing smog.
2. Step 2: Compare the given options to the concept of temperature inversion. Ozone depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, which does not directly trap pollutants at ground level. Acid rain is caused by the reaction of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides with water, but it does not trap pollutants. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, and it is unrelated to trapping pollutants.
3. Step 3: Recognize that temperature inversion is the correct answer because it directly explains the mechanism by which pollutants are trapped at ground level, leading to smog formation.
4. Step 4: Recall that smog is a type of air pollution that can be harmful to human health and the environment. It is often exacerbated by temperature inversion in urban areas with high levels of industrial and vehicular emissions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that understanding temperature inversion is crucial for addressing air quality issues and mitigating the effects of smog in affected regions.