# Burning coal in a power station produces several atmospheric pollutants. Explain how two different pollutants produced by the burning of coal cause environmental problems.

> Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0) — 8.1 Enthalpy changes and Hess cycles · Explain · 5 marks

> Coal is a fossil fuel used in power stations to generate electricity. It contains carbon, hydrogen and sulfur impurities. When coal burns, it undergoes combustion in oxygen.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Incomplete combustion of coal produces carbon monoxide / carbon particulates (soot)
2. Carbon monoxide is toxic / harmful to human health OR carbon particulates cause global dimming / health problems
3. Sulfur impurities in coal burn to produce sulfur dioxide
4. Sulfur dioxide reacts with water vapour in clouds to form acid rain
5. Acid rain damages ecosystems / kills trees / acidifies lakes / damages buildings / statues

## Key terms

- [pollutants](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/pollutants)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/burning-coal-in-a-power-station-a91f8aac) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.