Identify X, Y and Z in the following reaction. (Equation not balanced)
$$ClO^. + NO_2 \rightarrow X \xrightarrow{H_2O} Y + Z$$

We are given the reaction:

$$ClO \cdot + NO_2 \rightarrow X \overset{H_2O}{\rightarrow} Y + Z$$

Step 1: Finding X

The chlorine monoxide radical ($$ClO \cdot$$) reacts with nitrogen dioxide ($$NO_2$$). The chlorine monoxide radical bonds to $$NO_2$$ through its oxygen, forming chlorine nitrate:

$$ClO \cdot + NO_2 \rightarrow ClONO_2$$

So $$X = ClONO_2$$ (chlorine nitrate).

This is an important reaction in atmospheric chemistry. Chlorine nitrate acts as a temporary reservoir for both chlorine and nitrogen oxide species in the stratosphere.

Step 2: Hydrolysis of X to find Y and Z

When chlorine nitrate ($$ClONO_2$$) reacts with water, the $$Cl-O$$ bond and the $$O-NO_2$$ bond break. The hydrolysis reaction is:

$$ClONO_2 + H_2O \rightarrow HOCl + HNO_3$$

So $$Y = HOCl$$ (hypochlorous acid) and $$Z = HNO_3$$ (nitric acid).

Verification:

- $$X = ClONO_2$$ (chlorine nitrate) ✓

- $$Y = HOCl$$ (hypochlorous acid) ✓

- $$Z = HNO_3$$ (nitric acid) ✓

This matches Option C: X = $$ClONO_2$$, Y = $$HOCl$$, Z = $$HNO_3$$.