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nitrogen oxide

chemical compound

Quick Summary

Nitrogen oxides are chemical compounds formed when nitrogen reacts with oxygen, often during combustion processes. These compounds are considered atmospheric pollutants.1

Key nitrogen oxides include:
* Nitric oxide (NO): Formed by lightning or heating nitrogen and oxygen. It's also a pollutant from internal-combustion engines.2
* Nitrogen dioxide (NO2): A pungent, irritating gas that contributes to acid rain and photochemical smog. It is formed when combustion temperatures are high enough to cause nitrogen in the air to react with oxygen.3
* Nitrous oxide (N2O): Also known as laughing gas, it's used as an anesthetic and propellant.2

Nitrogen oxides are among the six major air pollutants designated as "criteria pollutants" due to their impact on air quality.3

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