Photochemical Oxidants
What is Photochemical Oxidants?
Photochemical oxidants are secondary air pollutants formed in the atmosphere by the action of ultraviolet sunlight on primary pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The principal photochemical oxidant is ozone (O₃), along with peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) and other reactive species. These oxidants cause eye irritation, respiratory damage, and plant injury, and are the primary components of photochemical smog found in urban environments with heavy traffic.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Photochemical oxidants are secondary air pollutants formed in the atmosphere by the action of ultraviolet sunlight on primary pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The principal photochemical oxidant is ozone (O₃), along with peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) and other reactive species. These oxidants cause eye irritation, respiratory damage, and plant injury, and are the primary components of photochemical smog found in urban environments with heavy traffic.