Question

India's white-marble Taj Mahal is turning yellow due to:

• A. Air pollution
• B. Water pollution
• C. Soil pollution
• D. Noise pollution

Answer 1

The correct option is A Air pollution

• Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide $\left(S{O}^2\right)$ and nitrogen oxides $\left(N{O}_X\right)$ are emitted into the atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents.
• The major sources of $\left(S{O}^2\right)$ and $\left(N{O}_X\right)$ in the atmosphere are: Burning of fossil fuels, vehicles and industrialization
• The $\left(S{O}^2\right)$ and $\left(N{O}_X\right)$ react with water, oxygen and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. These then mix with water and other materials before falling to the ground, resulting in acid rains.
• When acid rain falls on the Taj Mahal the monument gets corroded as the Taj Mahal is completely made of marble.
• Acid rains react with marble to form a powder-like substance which is then washed away by the rain. This phenomenon is called marble cancer.
• In addition, the soot particles emitted from the Mathura oil refinery located near Agra are leading to the yellowing of Taj Mahal marble.
• Thus, air pollution is the main reason why the Taj Mahal is turning yellow and green.