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

Step 1: Understanding Nitrogen Oxide Formation
Dinitrogen (N$_2$) reacts with oxygen (O$_2$) at high altitudes to form nitrogen oxides. The reaction occurs as follows: \[ N_2 (g) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NO (g) \] Step 2: Conversion to NO$_2$
Nitric oxide (NO) further reacts with oxygen: \[ 2NO (g) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NO_2 (g) \] Nitrogen dioxide (NO$_2$) is a toxic gas that damages plant leaves and hinders photosynthesis. Thus, the correct answer is (C).