Question

Dinitrogen is a robust compound, but reacts at high altitude to form oxides. The oxide of nitrogen that can damage plant leaves and retard photosynthesis is:

• A. NO
• B. NO$_3^-$
• C. NO$_2$
• D. NO$_2^-$

Hint:

NO$_2$ is a major air pollutant that causes photochemical smog and acid rain.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Phase 1: Dinitrogen Oxide Generation
At elevated altitudes, dinitrogen (N$_2$) and oxygen (O$_2$) combine to produce nitrogen oxides. The governing equation is:\[N_2 (g) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NO (g)\]Phase 2: Transformation to Nitrogen Dioxide
Nitric oxide (NO) then reacts further with oxygen:\[2NO (g) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NO_2 (g)\]Nitrogen dioxide (NO$_2$) is a harmful gas that adversely affects foliage and impedes the process of photosynthesis. Consequently, the correct selection is (C).