The best known member of a class of photochemical oxidizing agents known as the peroxyacyl nitrates. The peroxyacyl nitrates are formed when ozone reacts with hydrocarbons such as those found in unburned petroleum. They are commonly found in photochemical smog. The peroyxacyl nitrates attack plants, causing spotting and discoloration of leaves, destruction of flowers, reduction in fruit production and seed formation, and death of the plant. They also cause red, itchy, runny eyes and irritated throats in humans. Cardiac and respiratory conditions, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, may result from long-term exposure to the peroxyacyl nitrates.

See Also

Air Pollution; Los Angeles Basin