What do VOCs stand for in environmental health?

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are a significant focus in environmental health due to their impact on air quality and potential health risks. These compounds are characterized by their ability to evaporate easily at room temperature, which means they can readily enter the atmosphere and contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution.

Their sources can vary widely, including emissions from household products like paints, solvents, and cleaning agents, as well as industrial processes and vehicle exhaust. Understanding and monitoring VOCs is essential because they can cause various health effects, ranging from short-term irritation to longer-term chronic conditions. Additionally, some VOCs can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog, which pose broader environmental concerns.

The other options mentioned do not accurately represent what VOCs are. While they may contain some elements related to chemistry or harmful substances, they fail to convey the specific definition and significance of volatile organic compounds in environmental health.