Nitraattidioksidi

Nitraattidioksidi, also known as nitrogen dioxide, is a chemical compound with the formula NO2. It is a reddish-brown gas at room temperature and pressure. Nitrogen dioxide is a significant air pollutant and is primarily produced from the combustion of fossil fuels in vehicles and industrial processes. It is also a byproduct of natural processes such as lightning strikes.

In the atmosphere, nitrogen dioxide plays a crucial role in the formation of smog and acid rain. It can react with water and other chemicals in the air to produce nitric acid, which contributes to the acidification of precipitation. In the troposphere, NO2 is a precursor to the formation of ozone, another component of smog, which can have adverse effects on respiratory health. Exposure to high concentrations of nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs and exacerbate conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

Nitrogen dioxide is also an important intermediate in the industrial production of nitric acid, a key ingredient in fertilizers and explosives. Its chemical properties make it a versatile reagent in various chemical syntheses. Despite its environmental and health concerns, nitrogen dioxide remains an essential compound in many industrial applications.