Sulphur Dioxide is responsible for the damage caused to the Taj Mahal.
Pollutants from the industries and fossil fuels are released into the atmosphere in the form of oxides of Sulphur and Nitrogen. Petroleum refining and smelting have also resulted in the emission of SO2.
When it rains, Sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere combines with water, forming Sulphuric Acid.
This falls on Earth in the form of rain and this is known as Acid Rain.
Over the years, the colour of the Taj Mahal has faded from white to pale yellow. This is the result of continuous exposure to acid rain.
Acid rain reacts with the marble of the Taj Mahal, which contains calcium carbonate.
Other pollutant gases that damage the Taj Mahal are nitrogen oxide and hydrogen sulphide.
Sulphur Dioxide is a colourless pollutant with a strong odour. It contributes to acid rain and particulate matter. Most of the sulphur dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a result of human activity. It is also an indirect greenhouse gas,which can be detrimental to the health of both human beings and animals.
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