Photochemical smog is primarily caused by:

Correct answer: B. NO2

  • A. O3
  • B. NO2
  • C. SO3
  • D. CO2

Explanation

Photochemical smog appears to be initiated by nitrogen oxides that are emitted into the air as pollutants mainly from internal combustion engines. Absorbing the visible or ultraviolet energy of sunlight, it forms nitric oxide (NO) to free atoms of oxygen (O), which then combine with molecular oxygen (O2) to form ozone (O3). In the presence of hydrocarbons (other than methane), certain other organic compounds, and sunlight, various chemical reactions take place to form photochemical smog.

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Atmospheric pollution includes smog, acid rain, greenhouse gases, ozone depletion and the effects of carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Water pollution covers sewage, industrial waste, eutrophication and treatment stages, while green chemistry focuses on reducing hazardous substances, waste and energy use through safer, more efficient processes.

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