Photochemical Smog is formed by which pollutants in the presence of sunlight?

Prepare for the California BAR Smog Technician Test. Review key topics with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Photochemical Smog is formed by which pollutants in the presence of sunlight?

Explanation:
Photochemical smog forms when reactive hydrocarbons (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are exposed to sunlight. Sunlight drives the photolysis of NO2, producing an oxygen atom that quickly combines with O2 to form ozone. Hydrocarbons supply radicals (like OH and RO2) that propel chain reactions, converting NO to NO2 and sustaining ozone production. The result is ground-level ozone and other oxidants mixed with aerosols—the telltale mix of photochemical smog. Other pollutants such as CO and SO2 aren’t the primary drivers of this process, and ozone itself is a product, not a reactant, in this context.

Photochemical smog forms when reactive hydrocarbons (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are exposed to sunlight. Sunlight drives the photolysis of NO2, producing an oxygen atom that quickly combines with O2 to form ozone. Hydrocarbons supply radicals (like OH and RO2) that propel chain reactions, converting NO to NO2 and sustaining ozone production. The result is ground-level ozone and other oxidants mixed with aerosols—the telltale mix of photochemical smog. Other pollutants such as CO and SO2 aren’t the primary drivers of this process, and ozone itself is a product, not a reactant, in this context.

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