In environmental science, which of the following statements best describes the impact of dust on air quality?
A) Dust particles are too large to affect air quality and primarily influence only visual aesthetics.
B) Dust can negatively impact air quality by contributing to respiratory problems and reducing visibility, as well as potentially carrying pollutants and allergens.
C) Dust has a beneficial effect on air quality by providing essential nutrients to the atmosphere and promoting plant growth.
D) Dust particles are not considered pollutants and have no significant impact on human health or the environment.



Answer :

Answer: B) Dust can negatively impact air quality by contributing to respiratory problems and reducing visibility, as well as potentially carrying pollutants and allergens.

Explanation: Dust particles are small enough to cause respiratory irritation, so they're not too large to affect air quality. Thus, choice A is incorrect since dust particles can absolutely affect air quality.

Generally speaking, dust particles have negative effects on air quality and visibility. Dust particles are small enough infiltrate respiratory airways and increase a person's risk for heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Dust can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, making it difficult for individuals to breath.  

For those already suffering from respiratory illnesses such asthma and emphysema, the presence of dust can worsen the symptoms of these illnesses. In the most extreme cases, heavy concentrations of airborne dust can obscure visibility and drastically increase an individual's chance of premature death due to increasing the chance of respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

To summarize, dust has negative impacts on health and visibility. Thus, Choices C and D are also incorrect since dust has been proven to have negative effects on human health.