Question

The oxide of nitrogen responsible for depletion of ozone layer is

• A. $N_{2}O$
• B. $NO_{2}$
• C. NO
• D. $N_{2}O_{3}$

Hint:

NO "eats" Ozone. Just remember NO as the Ozone-Killer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept Certain nitrogen oxides act as catalysts in the upper atmosphere to break down ozone ($O_{3}$).

Step 2: Meaning Nitric oxide (NO) is released directly into the stratosphere by high-altitude supersonic jets.

Step 3: Analysis NO reacts with ozone: $NO + O_{3} \rightarrow NO_{2} + O_{2}$. The $NO_{2}$ then reacts with atomic oxygen to regenerate NO, allowing the cycle to repeat.

Step 4: Conclusion Thus, NO is the primary oxide of nitrogen involved in this destructive cycle.
Final Answer: (C)