PHOTOCHEMICAL SMOG QUESTIONS
AND ANSWERS WITH COMPLETE
SOLUTIONS 100% CORRECT
The Formation of Photochemical Smog
Photochemical smog is a complex atmospheric condition created by a series of
chemical reactions involving pollutants and solar energy. Here is a breakdown of
how it occurs:
Primary Pollutants: The process begins when significant amounts of
hydrocarbons (volatile organic compounds) and nitrogen oxides ($NO_x$)
are released into the troposphere, primarily from motor vehicle exhaust.
The Role of Sunlight: These pollutants undergo chemical reactions
activated by strong sunlight. This is why the phenomenon is most prevalent
in cities with high traffic volume and frequent sunny weather.
Visual Characteristics: The distinct yellow-brown haze associated with this
smog is primarily due to the presence of nitrogen dioxide ($NO_2$).
Environmental and Health Impact: Beyond the haze, the accumulation of
these gases and secondary pollutants (such as ozone) can lead to significant
respiratory irritation and other health issues for the population.
Formation of nitrogen oxides -ANSWER ✔✔- Nitrogen oxides are formed in high
temperature engines and furnaces
- Nitric oxide, NO, is formed by the reaction between atmospheric nitrogen and
oxygen at high temperatures in cars and industrial furnaces
N₂(g) + O₂(g) → 2NO(g) (high energy required) (colourless)
- Once released into the atmosphere, the nitric acid is rapidly converted to nitrogen
dioxide. Nitrogen dioxide is classified as a primary pollutant
2NO(g) + O₂(g) → 2NO₂(g) (brown)
AND ANSWERS WITH COMPLETE
SOLUTIONS 100% CORRECT
The Formation of Photochemical Smog
Photochemical smog is a complex atmospheric condition created by a series of
chemical reactions involving pollutants and solar energy. Here is a breakdown of
how it occurs:
Primary Pollutants: The process begins when significant amounts of
hydrocarbons (volatile organic compounds) and nitrogen oxides ($NO_x$)
are released into the troposphere, primarily from motor vehicle exhaust.
The Role of Sunlight: These pollutants undergo chemical reactions
activated by strong sunlight. This is why the phenomenon is most prevalent
in cities with high traffic volume and frequent sunny weather.
Visual Characteristics: The distinct yellow-brown haze associated with this
smog is primarily due to the presence of nitrogen dioxide ($NO_2$).
Environmental and Health Impact: Beyond the haze, the accumulation of
these gases and secondary pollutants (such as ozone) can lead to significant
respiratory irritation and other health issues for the population.
Formation of nitrogen oxides -ANSWER ✔✔- Nitrogen oxides are formed in high
temperature engines and furnaces
- Nitric oxide, NO, is formed by the reaction between atmospheric nitrogen and
oxygen at high temperatures in cars and industrial furnaces
N₂(g) + O₂(g) → 2NO(g) (high energy required) (colourless)
- Once released into the atmosphere, the nitric acid is rapidly converted to nitrogen
dioxide. Nitrogen dioxide is classified as a primary pollutant
2NO(g) + O₂(g) → 2NO₂(g) (brown)
