Smoke stacks are tall structures found on industrial buildings, such as factories and power plants. They are designed to release smoke and gases produced during manufacturing or energy generation into the atmosphere. By being elevated, smoke stacks help disperse pollutants over a larger area, reducing their concentration near the ground. These structures are often made of materials like brick or steel and can vary in height depending on the facility's needs. Smoke stacks are an important part of environmental management, as they help control air quality and comply with regulations set by organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).