Educator Guide: Wildfires May Boost Urban Ozone Levels

image of wildfire haze over the Golden Gate bridge and the San Francisco skyline

Smoke from wildfires blazing in California blankets the San Francisco skyline in an auburn haze. The mix of wildfire smoke and urban air pollution could increase ozone levels in the western United States, according to new research.

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About this guide

In this guide, students will explore chemical interactions within wildfire smoke and how urban air pollution can influence the reactions.

This Guide Includes:

Chemistry of wildfire smoke

Students will answer questions about the online Science News article “Wildfire smoke may ramp up toxic ozone production in cities,” which explores new research into the interactions between wildfire smoke and air pollution in cities. A version of the article, “Wildfires may boost urban ozone levels,” appears in the January 15, 2022 issue of Science News.