Coal combustion
Definition
Coal combustion refers to the process of burning coal to produce heat or electricity. This process releases various pollutants into the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and mercury.
Analogy
Think of coal combustion as a bonfire at a camping trip. Just like how burning wood releases smoke into the air around you, burning coal releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere when used for energy production.
Related terms
Fossil fuels: Non-renewable energy sources formed from ancient organic matter over millions of years. They include coal, oil, and natural gas.
Greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in Earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming. Carbon dioxide released during coal combustion is one example of a greenhouse gas.
Acid rain: Rainfall with a lower pH level than normal due to the presence of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are released during coal combustion.
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