Nitrogen oxide

Nitrogen oxide (also known as NOx) refers to a group of chemically reactive gases that contain nitrogen and oxygen in varying amounts. Many of the nitrogen oxides are colorless and odorless. However, one common pollutant, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) along with particles in the air can often be seen as a reddish-brown layer over many urban areas.

Sources and Production

Nitrogen oxides are produced during combustion, especially at high temperature. These can be produced naturally through lightning and biological processes in soils. Human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels in vehicles, power plants and industrial processes, are the primary source of nitrogen oxides.

Health Effects

Exposure to nitrogen oxides can cause a range of harmful effects on the lungs, including increased inflammation, altered lung function, and increased susceptibility to allergens. Long-term exposure can lead to the development of respiratory diseases.

Environmental Impact

Nitrogen oxides play a major role in atmospheric reactions that produce ground-level ozone, or smog. They also contribute to the formation of acid rain and particulate matter, which can have harmful effects on ecosystems and materials.

Control Measures

Various strategies can be used to reduce the emissions of nitrogen oxides, including improving combustion efficiency, using low-nitrogen fuels, and installing post-combustion control devices.

See Also

• Air pollution
• Ozone
• Acid rain
• Particulate matter
• Respiratory diseases

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