Air pollution has become a serious and urgent problem in …show more content…
First of all, Air pollution can cause physical damage to plants’ leaves (Gray). Ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide are strong oxidants and can do harm to the leaves. For example, ozone can produce brown spots on the leaves. Sulfur dioxide can bleach the leaves and make them mottled. Nitrogen dioxide can also cause lesions to leaves. Physical injuries not only affect the appearance of plants but also weaken the functions of leaves. Air pollution can negative affect plants’ growth. Particles, such as ozone, can block stomata in the leaves and prevent plants from conducting respiration and photosynthesis. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide can produce acid rain which can damage the leaves of plants. The reduction of chlorophyll can reduce the photosynthesis rate of plants. Acid rain also acidizes the soil and makes it unsuitable for the growth of plants. Air pollution can also increase the susceptibility of plants and make it more vulnerable to insects and