Question

Which one of the following statements regarding photochemical smog is not correct?

• A. Carbon monoxide does not play any role in photochemical smog formation
• B. Photochemical smog is an oxidising agent in character
• C. Photochemical smog is formed through photochemical reaction involving solar energy
• D. Photochemical smog does not cause irritation in eyes and throat

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine which statement regarding photochemical smog is not correct, let's analyze each option with respect to the characteristics and effects of photochemical smog:

1. Carbon monoxide does not play any role in photochemical smog formation:

   Photochemical smog primarily consists of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and other compounds that result from the photo-oxidation of pollutants like hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight. Carbon monoxide is mostly a byproduct of combustion and does not significantly contribute to photochemical smog formation. Therefore, this statement is correct.

2. Photochemical smog is an oxidising agent in character:

   Photochemical smog contains strong oxidizing agents, primarily ozone, which can react with various organic and inorganic substances. Therefore, this statement is correct.

3. Photochemical smog is formed through photochemical reaction involving solar energy:

   The formation of photochemical smog is facilitated by sunlight, which provides the necessary energy for photochemical reactions between pollutants like NO₂ and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therefore, this statement is correct.

4. Photochemical smog does not cause irritation in eyes and throat:

   Photochemical smog can indeed cause irritation in the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract due to the presence of oxidants like ozone. Therefore, this statement is not correct.

The statement "Photochemical smog does not cause irritation in eyes and throat" is incorrect because photochemical smog includes compounds that can cause such irritation.