24
$\begingroup$

I was using this website for weather conditions around the world called Ventusky (https://www.ventusky.com/) and one of its features allows you to view SO2 concentration. I stumbled upon this high concentration of SO2 near Zhezkazgan in Kazakhstan (https://www.ventusky.com/?p=47.47;65.97;6&l=so2). I googled it but couldn't find anything. Satellite images show desert and mountains. Any ideas what could this be?

Images:

enter image description here

enter image description here

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
0
29
$\begingroup$

The source of SO2 is the smelter associated with the Jezkazgan (Zhezkazgan, Жезказган) copper mine, mined by Kaz Minerals. The complex also produces sulfuric acid.

If you check for the other atmospheric pollutants with ventusky.com, you will see associated particulate matter - PM 2.5 and PM 10.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
1
  • 3
    $\begingroup$ If one had a satellite 70 years ago, a similar SO2 plume could have been seen at Sudbury Ontario , at the nickel smelters. $\endgroup$ – blacksmith37 Mar 4 '20 at 22:02

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.