Which pollutant is primarily formed from high-temperature oxidation in vehicle engines?

Study for the Grade 9 Environmental Chemistry Test. Use a blend of multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Master key concepts and prepare effectively!

Multiple Choice

Which pollutant is primarily formed from high-temperature oxidation in vehicle engines?

Explanation:
High-temperature oxidation of nitrogen in engine combustion produces nitrogen oxides. In the very hot flame, nitrogen from the air reacts with oxygen to form NO, which can further oxidize to NO2; together, these are NOx. This is a hallmark of combustion under high temperature and oxygen-rich conditions and is a major pollutant from vehicle exhaust. Other pollutants come from different processes: sulfur dioxide comes from sulfur in fuel reacting with oxygen; PM2.5 consists of fine particles formed from soot and other compounds; carbon monoxide forms when combustion is incomplete due to insufficient oxygen.

High-temperature oxidation of nitrogen in engine combustion produces nitrogen oxides. In the very hot flame, nitrogen from the air reacts with oxygen to form NO, which can further oxidize to NO2; together, these are NOx. This is a hallmark of combustion under high temperature and oxygen-rich conditions and is a major pollutant from vehicle exhaust. Other pollutants come from different processes: sulfur dioxide comes from sulfur in fuel reacting with oxygen; PM2.5 consists of fine particles formed from soot and other compounds; carbon monoxide forms when combustion is incomplete due to insufficient oxygen.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy