Final answer:
a) True. The statement finding gases and particulates as by-products of combustion to be true is correct. These by-products originate from various combustion processes and can lead to significant environmental and health concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that gases and particulates generated by burning are referred to as combustion by-products is true. Combustion by-products or pollutants are indeed emitted in various forms when materials are burned.
These can include gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) as well as particulate matter (PM). In residential settings, such pollutants often originate from fuel-burning appliances that are not properly vented, causing potential health hazards.
For example, when combustion is incomplete due to a lack of sufficient oxygen, carbon monoxide can be produced. Similarly, other by-products such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides contribute to air pollution, acid rain, and respiratory problems.
The presence of particulate material in the air can cause serious health issues, as fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
Understanding and controlling the emission of combustion by-products is crucial for both environmental health and personal safety within homes and workplaces.