Nitrogen oxides

Nitrogen Oxides are a group of seven chemical compounds consisting of nitrogen and oxygen atoms. The term is often used to refer to two of the most common and environmentally significant, nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

Chemical Properties

Nitrogen oxides are typically colorless and odorless. They are nonflammable and are only slightly soluble in water. However, they can be highly reactive with other chemical substances, and are capable of supporting combustion.

Production

Nitrogen oxides are produced both naturally and through human activities. Natural sources include lightning, volcanoes, and microbial processes in soil. Human activities that produce nitrogen oxides include the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, and from some types of industrial processes.

Environmental Impact

Nitrogen oxides play a significant role in environmental pollution. They contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain, and are a primary ingredient in the production of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant. Nitrogen oxides also contribute to global warming and climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere.

Health Effects

Exposure to high levels of nitrogen oxides can cause a range of adverse health effects, particularly in the respiratory system. These can include shortness of breath, coughing, and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory problems and can exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma.

Regulation

Due to their environmental and health impacts, the production and emission of nitrogen oxides are regulated in many countries. These regulations typically set limits on the amount of nitrogen oxides that can be emitted from various sources, such as power plants and vehicles.

See Also

• Air Pollution
• Greenhouse Gases
• Ozone Layer
• Climate Change