Nitrogen oxide can travel long distances, and can cause a
variety of health and environmental problems in locations far from their
emissions source. Sulfur oxide refers to many types of sulfur and oxygen containing
compounds. It is a colorless gas that can be detected by taste and smell. Very high
concentrations of sulfur oxide are believed to cause most of the health and
vegetation damages attributable to sulfur emissions.
Exposure to sulfur oxide in the ambient air has been
associated with reduced lung function, increase incidence of respiratory symptoms
and diseases, irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and sometimes fatal.
Children, the elderly, and those already suffering from respiratory ailments,
such as asthmatics, are especially at risk. Sulfur oxide dissolves in the watery fluids of
the upper respiratory system and absorbed into the bloodstream. Sulfur oxide can
also be carried deep into the pulmonary system.
Sulfur oxide
emissions may cause adverse impacts to vegetation, including forests and
agricultural crops. The plants lose their foliage and become less productive,
or die prematurely. Some species are much more sensitive to exposure than
others. Impacts on forest ecosystems vary greatly according to soil type, plant
species, atmospheric conditions, insect populations, and other factors that are
not well understood. Agricultural crops such as Alfalfa and rye grass are
especially sensitive.
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