Chapter 34: Problem 10

What is the difference between smog and photochemical smog?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The key difference between smog and photochemical smog lies in their formation process and causes. Smog is the combination of smoke and fog, which can occur naturally. On the other hand, photochemical smog is the complex outcome of reactions involving sunlight and pollutants like nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. This latter type is a direct result of human activities.

Step by step solution

Defining Smog

Smog is a type of air pollution that reduces visibility. The term 'smog' was first used in the early 20th century to describe a mixture of smoke and fog. The smoke usually came from burning coal. Smog can occur in almost any climate but it is worse during periods of warmer, sunnier weather when the upper air is warm enough to inhibit vertical circulation.

Defining Photochemical Smog

Photochemical smog is a specific type of smog. It is a brownish haze that is caused by the action of solar ultraviolet radiation on atmosphere polluted with hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen especially from automobile exhaust. Under certain conditions, these combine to produce a mixture of hundreds of different and hazardous chemicals. Also known as 'Los Angeles smog'.

Pointing Out Differences

The main difference between smog and photochemical smog is the way they are formed. While smog is formed due to the combination of fog and smoke, photochemical smog is formed through a complex set of reactions involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Another difference is that smog can occur naturally, while photochemical smog is always a result of human activities.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

What is the difference between smog and photochemical smog?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Defining Smog

Defining Photochemical Smog

Pointing Out Differences

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

Nuclear Chemistry

Organic Chemistry

Chemistry Branches

The Earths Atmosphere

Kinetics

Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.