sulfurous smog

Sulfurous smog, also known as "London smog," is a type of air pollution resulting from a high concentration of sulfur oxides in the air. This pollution is primarily caused by the burning of sulfur-bearing fossil fuels, especially coal. Sulfurous smog is exacerbated by damp conditions and the presence of suspended particulate matter.12

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂), a common oxide of sulfur, is produced during the combustion of coal or oil containing sulfur. This gas can cause irritation to the eyes and throat and damage lung tissue. Furthermore, sulfur dioxide reacts with atmospheric water vapor to form sulfuric acid, a major component of acid rain, which can harm aquatic life, plants, and buildings.23