Nitrogen Dioxide and Health Impact

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a reddish-brown gas with a pungent odor, part of a group of pollutants known as nitrogen oxides (NOₓ). Its chemical formula is NO₂, formed when nitrogen (N₂) reacts with oxygen (O₂) during high-temperature combustion processes.

NO₂ is regulated as a ​criteria pollutant under the U.S. Clean Air Act, emphasizing its significance in air quality management. Reducing exposure is critical to safeguarding public health, particularly for at-risk populations.