What is it?
Nitrogen Oxide is a chemical gas. It is a combination of Nitrogen Monoxide and Nitrogen Dioxide. Put them together and you get Nitrogen Oxide (NOx).

Who is affected by it?
People and animals are affected by NOx when breathing. The emissions from engines cause breathingdifficulty and asthma. Plants and forests are also greatly affected by NOx in the form of acid rain.

NOx + H2O -----> HNO3

Where is it found?
Nitrogen Oxides are found in the atmosphere. It is formed when Nitrogen gas breaks down. In more common events it is emitted from engine exhaust and when lightning strikes.

When is it an environmental problem?
NOx is an environmental problem when it comes in contact with plants and animals. Due to all the emissions from vehicles these days plants and animals are being starved of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Also when mixed with moisture NOx turns into acid rain. In lakes and ponds this can kill sea creatures. But the larger problem with acid rain is the destruction of plants and forests. Currently the most harmful effects of Nox come from car exhausts. The engines contain both Nitrogen Monoxide and Nitrogen Dioxide. Once combined these nitrogen gasescreate this smog that infects the lungs of humans and animals.

Why are people concerned about it?
People's main concern about NOx is through car emissions. Although the US has been trying to regulate these disgusting fumes over the years not much has been accomplished. In certain cities like Los Angeles or New Jersey the air is filled with it. There are smog’s of NOx coming from factories (like power plants)that just cover the sky with darkness. Breathing too much NOx in can cause asthma and other breathing and lung problems.

What do I think about it?
I think that the effects of acid rain are sad but that’s more natural than anything else. What I do care about is the emissions coming from cars these days. I think it’s disgusting to have to breathe in all this exhaust when driving behind a bus or some kind of truck. The sooner new technology comes out to reduce this exhaust the happier I will be. If there is one thing I truly hate its driving through New Jersey and just looking up at the yellowish brownish sky. A beautiful city in my eyes is ruined because of all these fumes.