Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile. It is located in a valley surrounded by mountains, which creates a natural basin that traps air pollution. The city has a high concentration of vehicles, industries, and power plants, all of which contribute to the air pollution problem.
The main pollutants in Santiago's air are particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3). PM is a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets that are suspended in the air. NO2 is a gas that is produced by the burning of fossil fuels. O3 is a gas that is formed by the reaction of sunlight with NO2 and other pollutants.
Air pollution can have a number of negative health effects, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. It can also contribute to environmental problems, such as smog and acid rain.
The government of Chile has taken a number of steps to address the air pollution problem in Santiago. These steps include implementing emissions standards for vehicles and industries, promoting the use of public transportation, and planting trees. However, more needs to be done to reduce air pollution in Santiago and protect the health of its residents.
