Global+Pollution+Data

//Satellite Image of particulate pollution over Beijing. courtesy of NASA MODIS// In this exercise you will have a look at the air quality in cities around the world using Google Earth (or Maps for lower bandwidth). Objectives:
 * Understand AQI/API readings and how to find them.
 * Discover which pollutants are the major sources for reduced air quality.


 * Investigating the major pollutants**
 * 1) Open up Google Earth and click on this [|link] to download the .kmz file for the worldwide dynamic air quality data.
 * 2) "Fly" around the globe and select 25 locations (choose from locations in the UK, USA, China, Hong Kong, and Mexico City)
 * 3) Click on each location and record in the Google Spreadsheet the "current" AQI/API reading and the major pollutant (if listed).
 * 4) When all locations have been logged, look over the list and answer the following questions.
 * 5) What parts of the world have the lowest air quality right now?
 * 6) What is appears to be the major pollutant in developing nations? developed nations? Account for any differences.

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 * Effect of Weather and Climate**
 * 1) Read the [|article] "Nature blamed for Beijing pollution."
 * 2) Go to the [|website] demonstrating temperature inversion and watch the flash movie.
 * 3) Use Google Earth to view the terrain around Beijing.
 * 4) Use this map to find the direction of the prevailing winds around Beijing.

Questions:
 * 1) Based on these factors, do you expect Beijing to experience frequent thermal inversions? Explain.
 * 2) What weather conditions in Beijing would likely result in thermal inversions?
 * 3) Is there anything that can be done to prevent/lessen the severity of thermal inversions in Beijing?


 * Effects of SPM on health.**
 * 1) Read the information from this [|link] on particulate pollution and your health.
 * 2) Read this [|blog] about API, PM and health.
 * 3) What are the major sources of particulate pollution in Beijing?
 * 4) Has the API information personally affected your activities? How could people use the API to make decisions about their activities?