Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

Criteria pollutants of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) include:

1. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

2. Particulate matter

3. Mercury

4. Two major greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide and methane

The correct answer is: Particulate matter

The correct answer is particulate matter. Particulate matter is one of the six criteria pollutants identified by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), which are established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health and the environment. Particulate matter is a significant concern because it can cause respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other health effects, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Criteria pollutants are specifically defined based on their potential health effects and their prevalence in the air across different regions. The other options listed do not meet the criteria in the same way. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), while concerning for air quality and health, are not classified as criteria pollutants under the NAAQS. Mercury is a heavy metal that has its own regulations but is not part of the criteria pollutants either. The greenhouse gases mentioned, carbon dioxide, and methane, are significant for climate change but are not included in the NAAQS criteria pollutants. Therefore, particulate matter is correctly identified as a criteria pollutant as established by the NAAQS.