Question
GSMediumPrelims 2013Environment & Ecology

Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction among -

Explanation

The correct answer is Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight.

  • Nitrogen Dioxide: Released mainly from vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions.

  • Sunlight: Sunlight's energy initiates the chemical reactions that form smog.

  • Volatile Organic Compounds: These are released from gasoline, paints, solvents, and other sources. They react with NO2 in the presence of sunlight.

  • Ozone: Ground-level ozone is a major component of photochemical smog, created by the reactions between NO2 and VOCs.

  • Peroxyacetyl Nitrate (PAN): PAN is another harmful component of smog, formed in the same reactions.

The simplified process: Sunlight triggers reactions between Nitrogen Dioxide and VOCs, leading to the formation of ozone, PAN, and other noxious components of photochemical smog.

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