What does SO2 stand for?

The term SO2 refers to sulfur dioxide, which is a chemical compound consisting of one sulfur atom and two oxygen atoms. This compound is significant in various sectors, including environmental science and chemistry, due to its role in air quality and as a precursor to acid rain. Sulfur dioxide is a gas at room temperature with a pungent, irritating smell. It is produced by volcanic eruptions, industrial processes, and the combustion of fossil fuels. Understanding SO2 is critical in discussions about air pollution, acid rain formation, and the impact of emissions on public health and the environment.

The other choices do not correctly represent the chemical formula SO2. Sulfur oxide is too vague as it could refer to various compounds involving sulfur and oxygen. Sulfate oxide is not a standard term or recognized compound, and sodium oxide refers to a different compound entirely, composed of sodium and oxygen. Therefore, sulfur dioxide is the accurate and widely recognized identification of the compound denoted by SO2.