Question

The photochemical smog is formed by
A. Nitrogen oxides
B. Hydrocarbons
C. Nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons
D. Solar radiations upon nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons

Answer 1

Photochemical smog is a type of smog that occurs when UV light reacts with the oxides of nitrogen and carbon-containing compounds. Pollutants are the main contributors to photochemical smog. It is mostly observed in warm cities such as Los Angeles.

Complete answer:
So, photochemical smog is formed by solar radiation that reacts with nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons.
Photochemical smog is also known as summer smog and it is observed to be a brownish haze and generally occurs in warm cities that experience a good amount of sunlight. This type of smog is predominantly visible in the mornings and afternoons.
Photochemical smog is formed through a series of complex chemical reactions the UV light originating from the sun, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. The nitrogen oxides and organic compounds are present in the atmosphere as pollutants. Nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide are emitted from automobiles and when exposed to the UV light, a series of complex reactions take place with hydrocarbons which eventually produces the key components of photochemical smog – ozone, nitric acid, aldehydes, peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs), and other secondary pollutants.

The correct answer is ( D ) that is Solar radiations upon nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons.

Note: Photochemical smog has various negative effects on humans and the environment. It can cause irritation in the eyes, decreased vision, and breathlessness. The ground-level ozone produced in this smog can be detrimental to human health. The radicals produced in the atmosphere as a result of the smog can interfere with the nitrogen cycle.