The word "nitrous" refers to something related to or containing nitrous oxide, a gas that is often used as an anesthetic or in car engines to make them more powerful. Full definition
It will be important in future experiments (see items 1 to 3) to measure changes in soil organic matter and related them to GHG emissions of nitrous oxide from soils and carbon dioxide emissions from inputs into crop production. (usask.ca)
Thus the concern was raised that even small increases in emissions of nitrous oxide from the adoption of zero tillage might cancel out the benefits of zero till, in terms of reductions in carbon dioxide emissions because of less fuel and machinery compared to conventional till, and in terms of increases in the sequestering of carbon in the soil. (usask.ca)
As a result of this exposure children have significant blood levels of carcinogens that result when nicotine deposited on the surfaces reacts with nitrous oxide in the environment. (sciencedaily.com)