Switching fuel in factories from coal to oil or gas is recommended as an environmental measure. Identify the…

Question

Switching fuel in factories from coal to oil or gas is recommended as an environmental measure. Identify the specific type of pollution this addresses and explain the mechanism by which the switch achieves the reduction.

Accepted Answer

## Model Answer The switch from coal to oil or gas addresses **air pollution**. **Mechanism:** Coal combustion releases a high proportion of smoke and particulate matter (solid and liquid particles like dust and soot) along with harmful gases. Oil and gas burn more cleanly, producing significantly less smoke. As stated in the textbook, "smoke can be reduced by using oil or gas instead of coal in factories." This reduces airborne particulates and undesirable gases such as sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide, thereby reducing air pollution. *Source: Control of Environmental Degradation, Chapter 6* --- ## Explanation - Examiners want you to **name the pollution type** (air pollution) — 1 mark. - Then **explain the mechanism**: coal → more smoke/particulates; oil/gas → less smoke — 2 marks. - The textbook directly states "smoke can be reduced by using oil or gas instead of coal" — quote or paraphrase this for full marks. - Do not write about water or noise pollution; stay focused on air p…

Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question