Multiple choice

What does photochemical smog contain?

a. Nitrogen dioxide b. Ozone c. VOCs

  1. a only

  2. b only

  3. Both a and b

  4. a, b and c

  5. Both b and c

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

If volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in the atmosphere, the equation changes entirely. Highly reactive VOCs oxidise nitrogen oxide into nitrogen dioxide without breaking down any ozone molecules in the process. This leads to a proliferation of ozone near ground level and dense smog formation. Photochemical smog, as commonly seen in the Los Angeles basin, is mainly composed of ozone and nitrogen dioxide. If volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in the atmosphere, the equation changes entirely. Highly reactive VOCs oxidise nitrogen oxide into nitrogen dioxide without breaking down any ozone molecules in the process. This leads to a proliferation of ozone near ground level and dense smog formation.

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