Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
NO2(g) stands for nitrogen dioxide, a reddish-brown gas composed of one nitrogen atom bonded with two oxygen atoms. It is an air pollutant and contributes to smog formation.
Related terms
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Nitrogen oxides are a group of gases that include NO2 and other compounds formed during high-temperature combustion processes such as in vehicle engines and power plants.
Smog: Smog refers to a mixture of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, ozone, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter. It usually forms in urban areas with heavy traffic or industrial activity.
Air Pollution: Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances or excessive amounts of certain natural substances in the atmosphere, which can negatively impact human health and the environment.