Question

The oxides of nitrogen are very important components in urban air pollution. Name each of the following compounds: (a) \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O},(\mathbf{b}) \mathrm{NO},(\mathbf{c}) \mathrm{NO}_{2},(\mathbf{d}) \mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{5},(\mathbf{e}) \mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4}\)

Short answer

The names of the nitrogen oxide compounds are: a) \(N_2O\) - Dinitrogen monoxide b) \(NO\) - Nitrogen monoxide c) \(NO_2\) - Nitrogen dioxide d) \(N_2O_5\) - Dinitrogen pentoxide e) \(N_2O_4\) - Dinitrogen tetroxide

Step-by-step solution

Recall numerical prefixes in chemistry

There are certain prefixes used for determining the number of atoms present in a molecule. The ones needed for this exercise are: 1 = mono 2 = di 3 = tri

Name N2O (Compound a)

The first compound given is N2O. Using the prefixes, we identify the compound as "Dinitrogen monoxide." Remember, "mono" is not used for the first element, only when it refers to the second element in the compound.

Name NO (Compound b)

The second compound given is NO. In this case, there's only one nitrogen and one oxygen atom in the compound, so it can be named as "Nitrogen monoxide."

Name NO2 (Compound c)

The third compound given is NO2. In this case, there's one nitrogen and two oxygen atoms in the compound, so it can be named as "Nitrogen dioxide."

Name N2O5 (Compound d)

The fourth compound given is N2O5. Using the prefixes, we identify the compound as "Dinitrogen pentoxide." The prefix "penta" represents the number 5.

Name N2O4 (Compound e)

The fifth compound given is N2O4. Using the prefixes, we identify the compound as "Dinitrogen tetroxide." The prefix "tetra" represents the number 4. In conclusion, here are the names of the nitrogen oxide compounds given in the exercise: a) N2O - Dinitrogen monoxide b) NO - Nitrogen monoxide c) NO2 - Nitrogen dioxide d) N2O5 - Dinitrogen pentoxide e) N2O4 - Dinitrogen tetroxide

Key concepts

Numerical Prefixes in Chemistry

Numerical prefixes in chemistry are essential tools for understanding and naming chemical compounds. These prefixes help indicate how many atoms of each element are present in a molecule. They simplify the communication and identification of compounds in both writing and speech. Here are some common numerical prefixes:

• Mono-: Represents one atom. This prefix is rarely used for the first element. It is typically only applied to the second element in a compound.
• Di-: Represents two atoms. It is often used when more than one atom of a particular element is present.
• Tri-: Represents three atoms. Like "di-", it indicates multiple atoms.
• Tetra-: Represents four atoms.
• Penta-: Represents five atoms.

The use of these prefixes allows chemists to communicate complex information succinctly. For example, "dinitrogen monoxide" (N₂O) signifies two nitrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Using prefixes helps ensure clarity when discussing chemical structures.

Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen oxides ( ext{NO}_x) are a group of gases that contain different combinations of nitrogen and oxygen atoms. These compounds are significant due to their impact on the environment and human health. Common nitrogen oxides include:

• Dinitrogen monoxide (N₂O), sometimes known as nitrous oxide or "laughing gas," is used in medical anesthesia and automotive performance applications.
• Nitrogen monoxide (NO), commonly referred to as nitric oxide, plays roles in various physiological processes, but in the atmosphere, it can contribute to forming smog and acid rain.
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a reddish-brown gas with a characteristic sharp, biting odor. It is a significant air pollutant that can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog.

These oxides often result from high temperature combustion processes, such as those in vehicle engines and power plants. Understanding nitrogen oxides is crucial in addressing environmental pollution and its adverse effects.

Urban Air Pollution

Urban air pollution is a growing concern in cities around the world. It is primarily caused by emissions from vehicles, industries, and power plants. Nitrogen oxides, particularly NO and NO₂, are among the leading pollutants contributing to urban air pollution. These gases play central roles in the creation of smog and have broad effects on public health and environmental quality:

• Breathing problems: Exposure to nitrogen oxides can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing and breathing difficulties.
• Environmental effects: These pollutants contribute to the formation of acid rain, which can damage vegetation, soil, and aquatic ecosystems.
• Ozone formation: Ground-level ozone, formed from reactions involving nitrogen oxides, is a significant component of smog and can harm lung tissue, reduce lung function, and aggravate asthma.

Reducing urban air pollution requires coordinated efforts that often involve improving vehicle emissions standards, adopting cleaner technologies, and increasing public awareness about the health risks associated with air pollution.