Nitrogen dioxide is not usually released directly into the air. Nitrogen dioxide forms when nitrogen oxide (NO) and other nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with other chemicals in the air to form nitrogen dioxide.
The main source of nitrogen dioxide resulting from human activities is the combustion of fossil fuels (coal, gas and oil) especially fuel used in cars. It is also produced from making nitric acid, welding and using explosives, refining of petrol and metals, commercial manufacturing, and food manufacturing.
Natural sources of other nitrogen oxides include volcanoes and bacteria.
There is also an association between nitrogen dioxide concentrations in the air and increases in mortality and hospital admissions for respiratory disease. Nitrogen dioxide can decrease the lungs' defences against bacteria making them more susceptible to infections. It can also aggravate asthma.
NO2 is comprised of one atom of nitrogen and two atoms of oxygen, and is a gas at ambient temperatures.It has a pungent smell, and is brownish red in color. NO2 is a member of a family of chemicals comprised of nitrogen and oxygen that are collectively known as nitrogen oxides.
Introduction: My name is Greg O'Connell, I am a delightful, colorful, talented, kind, lively, modern, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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