What is the major source of sulfur dioxides in the atmosphere?

The major source of sulfur dioxides in the atmosphere is fuel combustion. This process occurs predominantly in power plants, automobiles, and industrial facilities where fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, are burned. During combustion, sulfur present in these fuels is oxidized, resulting in the formation of sulfur dioxide (SO2), which is released into the atmosphere as a pollutant.

The significance of this source lies in the fact that sulfur dioxide is a key contributor to air pollution, leading to the formation of acid rain and having harmful effects on respiratory health and the environment. As energy consumption continues to rise globally, the combustion of fuels remains a predominant pathway for sulfur dioxide emissions.

While industrial processing and road traffic can also contribute to sulfur dioxide emissions, the scale and frequency of fuel combustion in energy production makes it the leading source for atmospheric sulfur dioxide. Natural erosion of soils does not play a substantial role in sulfur dioxide levels, as this process does not involve the release of sulfur oxides in meaningful quantities compared to the combustion of fossil fuels.