Nitrogen Dioxide as a Pollutant

Overview

• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) is a significant air pollutant and a notable constituent of urban smog. 
• It plays a critical role in atmospheric reactions that produce ground-level ozone or smog.

Primary Sources of Nitrogen Dioxide

• Fossil Fuel Combustion: Majorly produced by vehicles and industrial processes.
• Power Plants: Burning of coal or gas in power plants.
• Domestic Heating and Cooking: Utilizing oil, gas, coal, or wood.
• Agricultural Activities: Certain chemical reactions involving fertilizers and manures release NO₂.

Environmental and Health Impact

• Respiratory Issues: Aggravates respiratory diseases, particularly asthma, leading to respiratory symptoms (such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty in breathing), hospital admissions, and visits to emergency rooms.
• Environmental Damage: Leads to acid rain and eutrophication in water bodies, negatively affecting wildlife and habitats.
• Formation of Smog and Acid Rain: NO₂ reacts with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form acid rain. It also contributes to the formation of smog.
• Visibility Reduction: Contributes to haze and reduced visibility in urban and natural areas.

Why in News:

• A recent study by AIIMS has linked the rise of nitrogen dioxide leading to rise in patients with respiratory issues.