The hydroxyl radical ($OH^{\cdot}$) is highly reactive and plays a vital role in atmospheric chemistry, acting as a primary oxidant that initiates the removal of many trace gases in the troposphere.
The question asks for the species that primarily removes the hydroxyl radical ($OH^{\cdot}$) in the troposphere. Among the given options, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is recognized as the most significant sink for $OH^{\cdot}$ globally.
The reaction involved is:
This reaction consumes $OH^{\cdot}$ radicals, converting CO into $CO_{2}$. While methane ($CH_{4}$) also reacts with $OH^{\cdot}$, and NO participates in complex atmospheric cycles, the reaction with CO represents the largest removal pathway for $OH^{\cdot}$ in the overall troposphere, particularly in polluted regions.
Therefore, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is the dominant species responsible for removing hydroxyl radicals in the troposphere.
Which of the following chemicals is used to cause artificial rain (cloud seeding)?
Which of the following is a non-renewable source of energy?