Help answer this question below.
The term arose in 19th century Britain. One of the by-products of the industrial revolution was a massive increase in the smoke and sulphur put into the atmosphere by factories, etc. When combined with fog, the result was totally different to the white fogs seen in rural areas - because of the dirty yellow-brown color, they were named "pea soupers".
These poisonous combinations of smoke and fog continued to occur until 1952, when a five-day "pea souper" over London is estimated to have caused 4,000 premature deaths through bronchitis, pneumonia, etc. Cold weather meant an increase in coal-burning, and meteorological conditions led to the pollutants being trapped at ground level. Subsequent changes in legislation phased out open coal fires, and "pea soupers" are now a thing of the past in Britain.
More background on the 1952 Great Smog:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/2545759.stm
combination of smoke and fog.
a
when does the warm weather start? You know 10*C + (Which month )
by MasacruAlex on February 2nd, 2010
| 1 person likes this
Clear blue skies? Cozy snowfalls? Breezy summer nights? What type of weather are you hungry for?
by Closed Account on December 6th, 2009
| 4 people like this
How does cooling occurs. Its for my meteorology class. Just in general.
by Antman22 on January 27th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
What is the coldest temperature ever?
by FredNBarb on January 29th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
Why does snow appear white and not CLEAR?
by Kattra on December 29th, 2009
| 1 person likes this
You're reading Why is thick fog often referred to as "pea soup"?
Comments