Practice 6.3 Photochemical smog with authentic IB Environmental systems and societies (ESS - Old) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2 structure, covering key topics like ecosystems, human impact, and sustainability. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
SLPaper 2
Figure 1: Concentration of atmospheric pollutants associated
with photochemical smog
1.[1]
Identify one primary pollutant from the pollutants shown in Figure 1.
2.[1]
Outline why the pollutant named in Part 1 is referred to as a primary pollutant.
3.[1]
Outline one reason why there is an increase in nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons early in the day.
4.[3]
Explain the changes in ozone concentration over the period shown in Figure 1.
5.[1]
State one environmental impact of the accumulation of ozone shown in Figure 1.
6.[2]
Outline two local conditions that may increase the severity of photochemical smog.
7.[1]
Outline the role of catalytic converters in reducing photochemical smog.
Question 2
SLPaper 2
1.[4]
Outline two factors that affect the frequency and severity of photochemical smog in an area.
2.[7]
Evaluate strategies to manage regional acid deposition using the pollution management model.
3.[9]
To what extent have international agreements been successful in solving atmospheric air pollution and climate change?
Question 3
SLPaper 1
Figure 9: Annual mean oxides of nitrogen (NOx) concentrations measured in London air, 2013
1.[3]
With reference to Figure 9, explain why the highest levels of NOx are found in the centre of London.
2.[3]
Evaluate one strategy to reduce NOx emissions from transport.
3.[2]
Identify two potential impacts of improved air quality on London and its population.
Question 4
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Using named examples, outline the difference between natural and anthropogenic atmospheric primary pollutants.
2.[7]
Discuss reasons for high human population density within urban systems.
3.[9]
Evaluate a range of pollution management strategies that can be used to reduce urban air pollution.
Question 5
HLPaper 2
1.[4]
State four ways in which a country can increase its energy security.
2.[7]
Describe four factors that contribute to the occurrence of photochemical smog, and the direct and indirect impact it can have on societies.
3.[9]
Discuss the use of the doughnut economy model in building sustainable cities.
Question 6
SLPaper 2
Figure 1: A layer of smog covering the Chilean city of Santiago
1.[1]
Identify one human factor that contributes to photochemical smog.
2.[1]
Identify one natural factor that contributes to photochemical smog.
3.[4]
Explain why the formation of photochemical smog may have harmful effects on the environment of cities such as Santiago (Chile).
Question 7
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Outline four impacts of acid rain on the natural and urban environment.
2.[7]
Using named examples where relevant, distinguish between primary and secondary pollutants.
3.[9]
Evaluate how pollution management strategies may regulate, reduce, and repair the impact of sulphur dioxide on ecosystems.
Question 8
HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Outline the role of atmospheric circulation in the distribution of heat around the globe.
2.[7]
Using named examples, explain how feedback loops can lead to tipping points in relation to global warming.
3.[9]
To what extent do all countries have the same responsibility in dealing with atmospheric pollution issues?
Question 9
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Outline four impacts of acid rain on the natural and urban environment.
2.[8]
Using named examples where relevant, distinguish between primary and secondary pollutants.
3.[9]
Evaluate how pollution management strategies may regulate, reduce, and repair the impact of sulphur dioxide on ecosystems.
Question 10
SLPaper 2
1.[9]
To what extent is pollution impacting human food production systems?
2.[7]
Explain the causes and effects of acid deposition on natural ecosystems.
3.[4]
Outline, using examples, the differences between primary and secondary pollution.