Question

What is acid rain? Give a detailed explanation on its causes and effects.

Answer 1

Acid rain is an effect of air pollution. The reaction of air pollutants such as oxides of sulphur and nitrogen with water vapour and oxygen of the earth’s atmosphere results in the formation of dilute sulphuric and nitric acids. When these acids mix with rain water, they pour down as acid rain. Acid rains results in:
1. Acidification of soil which leads to the destruction of vegetation.
2. Leaching of soils and rocks.
3. Decay of building materials such as marble and lime stone.
4. Acidification of water bodies causing harm to aquatic lifeforms.