Consider the following statements regarding the formation of smog: 1....
- Photochemical smog (smog) is a term used to describe air pollution that is a result of the interaction of sunlight with certain chemicals in the atmosphere.
- One of the primary components of photochemical smog is ozone.
- Ground-level ozone is formed when vehicle emissions containing nitrogen oxides (primarily from vehicle exhaust) and volatile organic compounds (from paints, solvents, printing inks, petroleum products, vehicles, etc.) interact in the presence of sunlight.
View all questions of this test
Consider the following statements regarding the formation of smog: 1....
Explanation:
Photochemical smog is a type of smog that is formed when sunlight reacts with certain chemicals in the atmosphere. Ground-level ozone is a major component of photochemical smog. Let's analyze each statement individually to determine their correctness.
Statement 1: Photochemical smog is a term used to describe air pollution that is a result of the interaction of sunlight with certain chemicals in the atmosphere.
This statement is correct. Photochemical smog is formed when sunlight interacts with pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other reactive organic gases. These pollutants are emitted from various sources including vehicle exhaust, industrial processes, and chemical solvents. When these pollutants react with sunlight, they form a complex mixture of secondary pollutants such as ozone, peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs), and aldehydes. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog and can have adverse effects on human health and the environment.
Statement 2: Ground-level ozone is formed when vehicle emissions contain nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.
This statement is also correct. Ground-level ozone is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react in the presence of sunlight. Vehicle emissions are a significant source of these pollutants. Nitrogen oxides are released from the combustion of fossil fuels in vehicles' engines, while volatile organic compounds can come from vehicle exhaust, fuel evaporation, and other sources. When these pollutants are emitted and exposed to sunlight, they undergo a series of chemical reactions that lead to the formation of ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant and a key component of photochemical smog.
Therefore, both statements are correct. Photochemical smog is formed when sunlight interacts with certain chemicals in the atmosphere, and ground-level ozone is a major component of photochemical smog that is formed when vehicle emissions contain nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.