Question

Why are young children more likely to be harmed by environmental pollutants than older children and adults?

- Young childrens' organs are still developing
- Older children consume more air per pound of body weight
- Adults consume more water per pound of body weight
- Young children are more likely to stay inside during days of poor air quality

Answer 1

Young children are more vulnerable to environmental pollutants because their organs are developing, they breathe more air relative to their body weight, and they are at greater risk of exposure through behavior. Poor indoor air quality can be equally or more harmful than outdoor air, especially with the use of certain fuels for cooking and heating without proper ventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Why Are Young Children More Vulnerable to Environmental Pollutants?

Young children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of environmental pollutants due to several critical factors:

• Developing Organs: Young children's organs are still developing, which makes them more vulnerable to pollutants that can impede their growth and proper functioning.
• Higher Consumption of Air Per Body Weight: Young children breathe more rapidly than adults, which means they inhale more air relative to their body weight, increasing their exposure to airborne pollutants.
• While it might appear that staying inside during days of poor air quality could protect them, indoor air can often be more polluted than outdoor air. Sources such as tobacco smoke, certain building materials, and heating systems can contribute to poor indoor air quality.