What type of pollutants consist of actual substances rather than energy?

The concept of pollutants is categorized based on their nature and characteristics. When discussing pollutants that consist of actual substances rather than forms of energy, the term commonly used is "substance pollutants." These are tangible materials that can contaminate air, water, and soil and can include chemicals, heavy metals, plastics, and organic matter.

Substance pollutants differ significantly from energy pollutants, which involve energy forms such as heat or radiation. By identifying pollutants that are actual physical substances, we can better understand their effects on ecosystems, human health, and the environment. In environmental science, distinguishing between types of pollutants allows for a more effective approach to pollution management and remediation strategies.

While point source pollutants refer to contaminants that originate from a single identifiable source, and non-point source pollutants come from diffuse sources, the focus of the correct answer is on the materials themselves, rendering “substance pollutants” the most accurate choice.