Question:

Dinitrogen is a robust compound, but reacts at high altitudes to form oxides. The oxide of nitrogen that can damage plant leaves and retard photosyn-thesis is

Updated On: Jan 5, 2026
  • NO
  • NO3-

  • NO2

  • NO2-

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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The question pertains to understanding which oxide of nitrogen can be harmful to plant leaves and can hinder photosynthesis. Let us evaluate each option:

  1. NO (Nitric Oxide): Nitric oxide is generally not stable in the atmosphere and does not directly damage plant leaves. It usually oxidizes to form nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
  2. NO3- (Nitrate Ion): This is a stable ion that is often a part of fertilizers. It does not damage plant leaves directly.
  3. NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide): This is a significant air pollutant known to cause damage to plants. It can penetrate leaves, causing chlorophyll destruction and thus retarding the process of photosynthesis. This is the correct answer.
  4. NO2- (Nitrite Ion): Similar to the nitrate ion, this ion does not directly cause damage to plants.

Given these evaluations, NO2 is the oxide of nitrogen that can damage plant leaves and retard photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answer is:

NO2

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Concepts Used:

P-Block Elements

  • P block elements are those in which the last electron enters any of the three p-orbitals of their respective shells. Since a p-subshell has three degenerate p-orbitals each of which can accommodate two electrons, therefore in all there are six groups of p-block elements.
  • P block elements are shiny and usually a good conductor of electricity and heat as they have a tendency to lose an electron. You will find some amazing properties of elements in a P-block element like gallium. It’s a metal that can melt in the palm of your hand. Silicon is also one of the most important metalloids of the p-block group as it is an important component of glass.

P block elements consist of: