Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of gases emitted from various sources, including industrial processes, fuels, solvents, and organic matter decomposition. Outdoors, VOCs are commonly associated with traffic, industrial emissions, and natural sources such as vegetation.
VOCs play a significant role in atmospheric chemistry, as they react with nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. Elevated VOC levels can contribute to air pollution and may have health effects, particularly with long-term exposure.