What is Nitrate Radical?

About Nitrate radicals:

• Nitrate radical is an oxide of nitrogen that consists of three oxygen atoms bound to a nitrogen atom.
• These radicals could increase the amount of unhealthy ozone and PM2.5 fine particulate matter in the atmosphere.
• Nitrate radicals will oxidise gas pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• These VOCs will then generate ozone and secondary organic aerosol, both deteriorates air quality.
• The Ozone is an air pollutant that affects human health and crop yield.
• The synthesis of nitrate radicals rises at night in some regions of India, particularly in northern India.
• Reducing the emissions of VOCs could reduce this night-time oxidation in India and China.

Q1) What is a free radical in chemistry?

In chemistry, a radical, also known as a free radical, is an atom, molecule, or ion that has at least one unpaired valence electron.

Source: Nitrate radicals’ are likely making air pollution worse in China, India

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