What is the role of an electrostatic precipitator?

An electrostatic precipitator plays a vital role in air pollution control by removing charged particles from the airflow. It operates by using an electrical charge to attract and capture airborne particles such as dust and smoke. As the contaminated air passes through the precipitator, it is ionized, allowing particles to gain a negative charge. These negatively charged particles are then attracted to positively charged collection plates, where they adhere and ultimately are removed from the air stream.

This process is highly efficient and crucial in industrial applications where managing emissions is necessary to comply with environmental regulations and protect public health. The effectiveness of electrostatic precipitators in removing particulate matter makes them a key technology in improving air quality and minimizing environmental impacts.

The other options, while they describe functions related to air and emissions, do not accurately reflect the primary function of an electrostatic precipitator. Storing pollutants or delivering air at high pressure does not align with the purpose of this device, nor does mixing gases. Each of these roles pertains to different technologies or systems involved in air handling and pollution control.