Question

Which of the following statements is not correct?

• A. Catalytic converters present in automobiles prevent the release of nitrogen oxide to the atmosphere.
• B. Photochemical smog is a mixture of smoke, fog and \( \mathrm{SO_2} \).
• C. Chlorofluorocarbons damage ozone layer.
• D. Acid rain corrodes water pipes resulting in the leaching of heavy metals into the drinking water.

Hint:

Photochemical smog contains ozone, peroxyacyl nitrates (PAN), and \(\mathrm{NO_x}\), not \(\mathrm{SO_2}\), which is associated with classical smog.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Let’s examine the correctness of each statement: - (1) Correct: Catalytic converters reduce emissions including nitrogen oxides. - (2) Incorrect: Photochemical smog is primarily a mixture of smoke, fog, and hydrocarbons with \(\mathrm{NO_x}\) and ozone — not \(\mathrm{SO_2}\). - (3) Correct: Chlorofluorocarbons are known to deplete the ozone layer. - (4) Correct: Acid rain can cause corrosion of water pipes, leading to leaching of toxic metals. Therefore, Option (2) is incorrect.