Which of the following is a common source of VOCs in homes?

Pressed wood products are a common source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in homes due to the adhesives and resins used in their manufacturing. These products, which include items like particleboard, plywood, and medium-density fiberboard, often contain urea-formaldehyde and other chemicals that can release VOCs into the indoor air.

When these materials are produced, certain compounds can remain in the product and off-gas over time, contributing to indoor air pollution. The indoor environment can be significantly affected by the presence of these VOCs, which can have various health implications for occupants, including respiratory issues and other long-term health effects.

In contrast, natural gas is primarily composed of methane, which does not typically contribute to VOC levels in a significant way when used as a fuel source. Concrete flooring and brick walls are generally considered inert materials, meaning they do not emit VOCs like some manufactured wood products do. Therefore, while other options may have their own relevance in discussions about indoor air quality, pressed wood products are specifically noted for their contribution to VOC emissions in household environments.