Which atmospheric gas is the primary ingredient of photochemical smog?

Correct option is B

Photochemical smog is primarily caused by the reaction of sunlight with pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). One of the major components of photochemical smog is ozone. Ozone forms in the lower atmosphere due to this reaction, and it contributes to the harmful effects of smog, including respiratory issues and visibility reduction. Ozone can be harmful when found at ground level, as opposed to the beneficial ozone in the upper atmosphere that protects us from UV rays.

Information Booster:

1. Photochemical smog occurs mainly in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activities.
2. The formation of ozone in the atmosphere is driven by solar radiation.
3. Ozone at ground level can cause significant health problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.
4. The key ingredients for photochemical smog include nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and sunlight.
5. Control measures for photochemical smog include reducing vehicular emissions and industrial pollution.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change, but it is not directly involved in the formation of photochemical smog. While it can contribute to atmospheric changes, it does not play a direct role in smog formation.
• (c) Argon is an inert gas and makes up a small percentage of the Earth's atmosphere. It does not participate in the chemical reactions that lead to photochemical smog formation and is not involved in air pollution issues.
• (d) Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, but it does not directly form ozone in photochemical smog. However, methane can contribute to ozone formation indirectly by reacting with hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere, but it is not the primary ingredient of photochemical smog.