Reduction of Metals: Metal Pollution
- Page ID
- 50938
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It seems natural to enjoy a spectacular pyrotechnics display of fireworks. The amazing colors, sounds are pleasing to the eyes. Recent studies, however, have unearthed many toxic and harmful side effects that are ruining our health and environment.
The following pollutants are found in a fireworks display aftermath:
Human Thyroid Inhibitors:
Perchlorates are the salts derived from perchloric acid ( HClO4)
Ammonium perchlorate ( NH4HClO4) is used in fireworks as a propellant.
The chemical reaction of ammonium perchlorate with water =
NH4HClO4(s) >>NH4+ (aq) + HClO4- (aq)
Notice that this is a decomposition reaction. Water is able to separate the ammonium perchlorate into positively and negatively charged ions.
Ions:
Ions are charged particles. Water is able to separate the above compound due to dipole forces.
Heavy Metals:
Bio accumulating heavy metal compounds such as lead dioxide ( PbO2) and Mercurous chloride (Hg2Cl2) are emitted from fireworks. They are an eminent danger to unborn babies and children and are poisonous to plants and animals.
Ozone Production:
Ozone, O3, is a harmful greenhouse gas that is formed during fireworks displays and by merely burning a sparkler. It erodes the troposphere and is an irritant to the lungs.
Foul Smelling Pollutants: These include sulfur compounds such as sulfur dioxide ( SO2). This rotten egg smelling compound forms acid rain that effects the water supply and vegetation.
Cancer Causing Agents: Carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds such as hexachlorobenzene (HCB) are emitted from fireworks. Chemical formula: C6H6 Ring structure:
![](https://chem.libretexts.org/@api/deki/files/73624/120px-Benzene-2D-full_svg.png?revision=1&size=bestfit&width=120&height=136)
Description |
Benzene 2D |
---|---|
Keywords | Gases |
Date |
2010 |
Source |
www.en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzene |
Permission |
released to the public domain |
![](https://chem.libretexts.org/@api/deki/files/73625/120px-Benzene-aromatic-3D-balls.png?revision=1&size=bestfit&width=120&height=133)
Description |
Benzene 3D |
---|---|
Keywords | Gases |
Date |
2010 |
Source |
www.en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzene |
Permission |
released to the public domain |
Radioactive Fallout:
Fine particulate dust in the form of barium nitrate ( Ba(NO3)2 ) is found in the pollutant aftermath.
Noise Pollution:
Noise is measured in units called decibels that range from 0 to 140. Hearing loss can occur With an exposure to 110dB or more for more than 1 minute on a routine basis. Fireworks have a decibel reading of 140! This noise is painful and can cause hearing loss.
Green Alternatives:
Some areas such as resorts use firework displays daily. These pollutants are highly concentrated and add to the yearly metal emissions of our country. They pollute and harm the human body as well as earth, land and sea. What are some viable alternatives? Here are some suggestions:
1. Laser Light Shows
2. Electronic pyrotechnics- the blasts can form a canopy of up to 25 ft. that can rain down glitter, candy.
3. Simulated fireworks displays on projectors.
From CoreChem: 22.4: Reduction of Metals
Sources:
www.doeal.gov/SWEIS/OtherDocu...achppm2006.pdf
www.envirofacs.org/Pre-prints...Papers/p48.PDF
www.doeal.gov/SWEIS/OtherDocu...achppm2006.pdf
www.envirofacs.org/Pre-prints...Papers/p48.PDF
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/es0700698
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebit...onicrev1.shtml www.tigerflare.com/component/...of-perchlorate http://www.alanwood.net/pesticides/hexachlorobenzene.html ''1. Laser Light Shows
Picture reference:http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/11/101116111715.htm
Contributors and Attributions
Ed Vitz (Kutztown University), John W. Moore (UW-Madison), Justin Shorb (Hope College), Xavier Prat-Resina (University of Minnesota Rochester), Tim Wendorff, and Adam Hahn.