Reducing NOx Emissions in Catalytic Converters

Steps:

• Identify reactants: CO and NO are exhaust pollutants from combustion.
• Note products: CO2 and N2 are less harmful and non-reactive.
• Recall photochemical smog: Forms via NO reacting with VOCs and sunlight to create ozone and haze.
• Link reaction: Converts NO to N2, lowering NOx levels that trigger smog.

Why C is correct:

• NO is a key precursor in photochemical smog formation; reducing it via the reaction decreases ground-level ozone and particulate production, per air quality chemistry.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Catalytic converters use platinum-group metals like platinum and rhodium, not iron.
• B: Converts CO to CO2, a greenhouse gas, so it does not prevent emissions.
• D: Products CO2 and N2 do not contribute to ozone depletion, which involves stratospheric reactions with CFCs.

Final answer: C