Effects and Causes of Acid Rain

Acid rain is precipitation with increased acidity due to pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. It forms through chemical reactions in the atmosphere and can fall as wet or dry deposition. Acid rain affects human health, causing respiratory issues, and damages the environment, infrastructure, and economy. It primarily results from burning fossil fuels, but natural events like volcanic eruptions also contribute. Understanding the chemical reactions involved helps in addressing its impacts.

What are the two main types of acid rain?

• Natural rain and artificial rain

• Wet deposition and dry deposition

• Liquid rain and solid rain

• Sulfuric rain and nitric rain

Which of the following is a health impact of acid rain?

• Improved lung function

• Increased risk of respiratory diseases

• Enhanced immune system

• Reduced allergy symptoms

How does acid rain affect drinking water sources?

• It purifies the water

• It makes the water taste better

• It contaminates the water, making it unsafe

• It increases the water's pH level

Which of the following is NOT an effect of acid rain on infrastructure?

• Corrosion of building materials

• Strengthening of concrete

• Damage to bridges

• Increased maintenance costs

What is the impact of acid rain on aquatic ecosystems?

• It increases biodiversity

• It makes them unsuitable for fishing and recreation

• It has no impact

• It makes them more suitable for fishing

What is a primary human activity that contributes to acid rain?

• Planting trees

• Recycling waste

• Burning fossil fuels

• Using solar panels

Which natural event can contribute to acid rain formation?

• Volcanic eruptions

• Floods

• Earthquakes

• Tornadoes

What is the general formula for the formation of sulfuric acid from sulfur dioxide?

• SO2 + O2 + H2O → H2SO4

• SO2 + N2 + H2O → H2SO4

• SO2 + CH4 + H2O → H2SO4

• SO2 + CO2 + H2O → H2SO4

What is the typical pH level of acid rain?

• Above 7

• Exactly 7

• Around 5.6

• Less than 5.6

Which chemical reaction is involved in the formation of nitric acid in acid rain?

• NOx + H2O → HNO3

• NOx + N2 → HNO3

• NOx + CO2 → HNO3

• NOx + CH4 → HNO3