Nitrogen oxides are a mixture of gases that are composed of nitrogen and oxygen. Two of the most toxicologically significant nitrogen oxides are nitric oxide and
nitrogen dioxide, both are nonflammable and colorless to brown at room temperature. Nitric oxide is a sharp sweet-smelling gas at room temperature, whereas nitrogen dioxide has a strong, harsh odor and is a liquid at room temperature, becoming a reddish-brown gas above 70 degrees F.
Nitrogen oxides are released to the air from the exhaust of motor vehicles, the burning of coal, oil, or natural gas, and during processes such as
arc welding, electroplating, engraving, and dynamite blasting. They are also produced commercially by reacting nitric acid with metals or cellulose.
Nitrogen oxides are used in the production of nitric acid, lacquers, dyes, and other chemicals. Nitrogen oxides are also used in rocket fuels, nitration of
organic chemicals, and the manufacture of explosives.
Everybody is exposed to small amounts of nitrogen oxides in ambient air. Higher exposure may occur by burning wood or
kerosene or near gas stoves or if you
smoke. Exposure to high levels of nitrogen oxides can damage the
respiratory airways. Contact with the
skin or
eyes can cause
burns. Nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide have been found in at least 9 and 6 of the 1,585 National Priorities List
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), respectively.
See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. In addition, it
may be important to
contact an attorney who
can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there
may be
timelimits within which you must commence suit.
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Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Burns: Overview
- Fatigue: Overview
- Lung & Airway Disorders
- Nausea: Overview
- Nitrogen Oxides: Frequently Asked Questions