Acid rain

Definition

Acid rain is precipitation with unusually high levels of hydrogen ions (low pH), resulting from the atmospheric release of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). It can harm ecosystems, aquatic environments, and man-made structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acid rain is primarily caused by emissions from burning fossil fuels which release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere.
2. When these gases react with water vapor in the atmosphere, they form sulfuric acid and nitric acid which fall as acid rain.
3. Acid rain can lead to the leaching of vital nutrients like calcium and magnesium from soils, affecting plant growth.
4. Aquatic systems are particularly vulnerable, as acid rain can lower the pH of water bodies, harming fish and other aquatic life.
5. Efforts to reduce acid rain focus on limiting SO2 and NOx emissions through cleaner energy sources and regulatory measures.

Review Questions

• What are the primary pollutants responsible for causing acid rain?
• How does acid rain affect soil nutrient composition?
• Describe one way in which acid rain impacts aquatic ecosystems.

Related terms

Biogeochemical Cycles: The movement of elements like carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur through living organisms and the physical environment.

Ecosystem: A community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment.

pH Scale: A measure of acidity or alkalinity in a solution, ranging from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline).