Sulphur dioxide is one of the gases which lead to the
introduction of atmospheric pollution
legislation.
It is the main pollutant responsible for acid rain as it
dissolves easily in water to form sulphuric acid.
The primary source of sulphur dioxide (SO2) is the
burning of fossil fuels in power stations which accounts for
approximately 67% of the UK total.
Other industrial emissions are responsible for a further 20% with
vehicles, principally diesel, contributing another 2%.
SO2 is a broncho constrictor which means it
causes a narrowing of the airways which can cause breathing
problems.
Asthmatics are more sensitive to SO2 than others
although at high concentrations it acts as an irritant and provokes
wheezing.
