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Pollutants from combustion

GCSE · Combined Science · AQA · C9Chemistry of the atmosphere

Question

Question (4 marks): Petrol is a hydrocarbon fuel. Explain how the combustion of petrol in a car engine can produce carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen, and give one problem caused by each.

Mark scheme (4 marks):

  • Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion (insufficient oxygen) (1)
  • Carbon monoxide is toxic — binds to haemoglobin and reduces oxygen transport in the blood (1)
  • Oxides of nitrogen form because nitrogen and oxygen in the air react at the high temperatures in the engine (1)
  • NOₓ cause acid rain / respiratory problems / photochemical smog (1)

4 marks · take your time before peeking.

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Generated by TopMyGrade AI · cross-check official sources before relying on the mark-scheme phrasing.