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Inorganic compounds play a crucial role in environmental chemistry. They are involved in numerous processes, including:
Water quality: Inorganic ions like nitrates, phosphates, and heavy metals can contaminate water sources, impacting aquatic life and human health.
Air pollution: Gases like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are released from combustion processes, contributing to acid rain and smog.
Soil fertility: Inorganic nutrients like phosphorus and potassium are essential for plant growth. However, excess nutrients can lead to eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems.
Climate change: Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Remediation: Inorganic compounds are used in remediation processes to remove pollutants from soil and water.