Final answer:
London-type smog, or industrial smog, is largely caused by the burning of high sulfur coal, resulting in the release of soot and various sulfur compounds that can contribute to the formation of acid rain.
Step-by-step explanation:
London-type smog results from the burning of large amounts of high sulfur coal. This type of smog, also known as industrial smog, primarily consists of soot, fly ash, sulfur dioxide, sodium chloride, and calcium sulfate particles. High concentrations of sulfur dioxide can further react with atmospheric hydroxide to produce sulfuric acid, which precipitates as acid rain. Despite the introduction of clean air laws such as those in 1956, which significantly reduced smog formation in the United Kingdom, London-type smog remains prevalent in parts of the world, impacting air quality and human health.
Historically, the burning of coal not only generated power but also led to considerable amounts of soot accumulation on surfaces and contributed to air pollution changing the color of sunsets, seen as both a mark of industrial pride and a problem to be tackled. Today, indoor air pollution, mentioned in one of the sources, can be as harmful as outdoor air pollution, especially with pollutants like carbon monoxide.