Question

In the formation of photochemical smog, two oxides of nitrogen are significantly formed. The oxidation states of nitrogen in these oxides are respectively

• A. \(+1,\ +4\)
• B. \(+2,\ +4\)
• C. \(+2,\ +5\)
• D. \(+1,\ +2\)

Hint:

The chief nitrogen oxides responsible for photochemical smog are \[ \boxed{\mathrm{NO}\;(N=+2)} \] and \[ \boxed{\mathrm{NO_2}\;(N=+4).} \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the oxides involved in photochemical smog. The major oxides of nitrogen involved are \[ \mathrm{NO} \] and \[ \mathrm{NO_2}. \]

Step 2: Find the oxidation states of nitrogen. For nitric oxide, \[ \mathrm{NO}: \] \[ x+(-2)=0 \] \[ x=+2. \] For nitrogen dioxide, \[ \mathrm{NO_2}: \] \[ x+2(-2)=0 \] \[ x=+4. \] Hence, \[ \boxed{+2,\ +4} \] Therefore, \[ \boxed{(B)} \] is the correct answer.