Which of the following pollutants is the major contributor to photochemical smog?
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A.
Hydroperoxides
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B.
Ozone
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C.
Nitrogen dioxide
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D.
Peroxynitrates
Correct Answer:
B. Ozone
Explanation:
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) acts as the primary catalyst in the formation of photochemical smog. When NO2 is exposed to solar radiation, it undergoes a chemical breakdown that releases reactive oxygen atoms. These individual oxygen atoms then combine with atmospheric oxygen molecules to produce ground-level ozone, which is the principal component of smog. While other substances like ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrates (PAN) are significant components of the resulting pollution, they are secondary products that depend on the initial photolysis of nitrogen dioxide. Consequently, nitrogen dioxide is considered the essential precursor that initiates the entire sequence of smog-forming reactions.
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