Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless and odorless gas normally present at Earth's surface at low concentrations. One of the significant features of SO2 is that once it is emitted into the atmosphere it may be converted through complex reactions to fine particulate sulfate (SO4). The major anthropogenic source of sulfur dioxide is the burning of fossil fuels, mostly coal in power plants. Another major source comprises a variety of industrial processes, ranging from petroleum refining to the production of paper, cement, and aluminum. Adverse effects associated with sulfur dioxide depend on the dose or concentration present and include corrosion of paint and metals and injury or death to animals and plants. Crops
such as alfalfa, cotton, and barley are especially susceptible. Sulfur dioxide is capable of causing severe damage to human and other animal lungs. particularly in the sulfate form. It is also an important pre-
cursor to acid rain, as are nitrogen oxides.
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