Zeldovich mechanism

The Zeldovich mechanism describes how nitrogen gas (N₂) and oxygen gas (O₂) react at high temperatures, such as in combustion or explosions, forming nitrogen monoxide (NO). It involves a series of steps where energetic molecules collide and break apart, allowing nitrogen and oxygen atoms to combine temporarily. This process explains why significant amounts of nitrogen monoxide form during intense fires, despite N₂ and O₂ not reacting easily at lower temperatures. The mechanism helps scientists understand and predict the formation of pollutants like NOx during high-temperature combustion.