What is sulfur dioxide primarily associated with?

Sulfur dioxide is primarily associated with industrial emissions from burning coal or petroleum. This compound is a significant byproduct of the combustion of fossil fuels, particularly in power plants and other industrial facilities that rely on coal or oil for energy production. The burning process releases sulfur that is present in these fuels as sulfur dioxide gas into the atmosphere.

While it is true that vehicle exhausts contribute to various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, sulfur dioxide emissions are predominantly a result of industrial activities rather than automobile use. Additionally, natural gas combustion produces mainly carbon dioxide and water vapor with minimal sulfur dioxide, making it less significant as a source of this gas. Lastly, while the Chernobyl disaster might have released several hazardous materials into the environment, its association with sulfur dioxide is not as direct or significant as that from traditional fossil fuel combustion practices.