Q. Consider the following statements:
1.Deforestation and soil erosion are the major source of nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere.
2.Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a primary component of photochemical smog.
3.A higher concentration of NO₂ in the atmosphere lowers the crop yields.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanations –
Statement 1 is incorrect. Nitrogen oxides are primarily emitted from combustion processes such as vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and power plants, rather than deforestation or soil erosion. While deforestation and soil erosion disrupt natural nitrogen cycles, they are not significant direct sources of NO₂ emissions.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a key component of photochemical smog. It reacts with sunlight and other pollutants to form secondary pollutants like ozone, which contribute to smog formation. NO₂ is a phytotoxin that directly damages plant cells and reduces crop yields. It also contributes to the formation of ozone, which further harms crops. Studies show that reducing NO₂ levels can significantly improve crop yields.
Source: The Hindu
