What it is:
* Rain, snow, or fog with a pH lower than 5.6.
* Caused by sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) released into the atmosphere.
* These gases react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids.
Sources:
* Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) in power plants and vehicles.
* Industrial processes.
* Volcanic eruptions.
Impacts:
* Damages forests by leaching nutrients from soils and making them acidic.
* Acidifies lakes and streams, harming aquatic life.
* Corrodes buildings, bridges, and statues.
* Contributes to respiratory problems in humans.
* Can impact agriculture by damaging crops.
Solutions:
* Reduce emissions from power plants and vehicles.
* Use cleaner fuels, like renewable energy sources.
* Implement air pollution control technologies.
* Improve energy efficiency.
Additional Notes:
* Acid rain is a global problem, but some regions are more affected than others.
* The effects of acid rain can be long-lasting and difficult to reverse.
* Acid rain can be prevented and mitigated through human actions.
