Adverse effects of common air pollutants

Steps:

• Recall primary air pollutants: greenhouse gases (e.g., CO2), particulate matter (PM), and carcinogenic compounds (e.g., benzene).
• Link effects: GHGs trap heat causing global warming; PM irritates lungs leading to respiratory problems; carcinogens damage DNA causing cancer.
• Examine options for accurate, complete listing of health and climate impacts.
• Choose the option matching established environmental science associations without substitutions.

Why A is correct:

• It accurately lists global warming from GHGs, respiratory problems from PM (per WHO air quality guidelines), and cancer from toxins, covering key adverse effects.

Why the others are wrong:

• B: Swaps order of cancer and respiratory problems, misrepresenting priority health impacts where respiratory effects are more immediate.
• C: Duplicates A but listed as identical, offering no distinction; question implies unique correct row.
• D: Replaces cancer with acid rain (from SO2/NOx), omitting human health risk of carcinogens.

Final answer: A