Formation of photochemical smog

Photochemical Smogs

Formation involves sunlight, ozone, NOx, and hydrocarbons

Nitrous Oxides

Released in exhaust gases, form toxic NO2 under high temperature

Tropospheric Ozone

Generated by photochemical reactions with NOx, a secondary pollutant

Unburnt Hydrocarbons

Residual fuel in exhaust gases, a source of pollution

Hydrocarbon

Organic compound of hydrogen and carbon

PANS

Peroxy acetyl nitrates, a photochemical pollutant

Temperature Inversion

Cool air trapped by pollutants, preventing warm air from rising

Valleys

Topographical feature increasing smog likelihood

Sunny Conditions

Environmental factor contributing to photochemical smog formation

Cars and Industry

Sources of pollutants enhancing smog creation

Heat Reflection

Surface heat reflected back, influencing temperature inversions

Insolation

Solar radiation absorbed by the Earth's surface

Catalytic Converters

Devices reducing NOx and oxidizing hydrocarbons in vehicle exhausts

Primary Pollutants

Initial pollutants leading to secondary pollutant formation

Reactants

Substances present in a chemical reaction

NOx Effects

Increases respiratory infections and worsens health conditions

PANs Effects

Cause eye irritations, asthma, and emphysema

O3 Effects

Triggers asthma, bronchitis, and heart disease

Altitude

Height above sea level, affecting temperature and air properties

Activated Carbon Filter

Device adsorbing hydrocarbons from vapors

Vapour Collection

Process of gathering hydrocarbon vapors for reuse