Is it true or false that ozone can be formed by the action of sunlight on nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons?

The statement is true. Ozone is indeed formed through a photochemical reaction involving the action of sunlight on nitrogen oxides (NOx) and hydrocarbons. This process is a critical component of photochemical smog formation in the atmosphere.

In the presence of sunlight, nitrogen oxides react with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are often referred to as hydrocarbons, to produce ozone. These reactions are part of complex atmospheric chemistry that occurs primarily during warm, sunny days, leading to elevated levels of ground-level ozone.

This phenomenon is significant in environmental health as high concentrations of ozone can have adverse effects on human health and the environment, contributing to respiratory issues and other health problems. Understanding the formation of ozone is essential for managing air quality and formulating effective pollution control strategies.