When fossil fuels such as coal are burned, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere. These pollutants react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form acids, such as sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3). These acids can then fall to the ground in rain, snow, fog, or dry deposition, leading to acid rain.
Acid rain has various detrimental effects on the environment and human health. It can cause damage to forests, lakes, and aquatic ecosystems, leading to a decline in biodiversity. It can also erode and discolour buildings, statues, and other structures made of materials like limestone and marble. Acid rain can have negative impacts on human health, contributing to respiratory problems and exacerbating conditions like asthma.
Efforts have been made to reduce acid rain through regulations and policies that aimed to control emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from power plants and vehicles.
