Precipitation with an excessive amount of sulfuric and nitric acids is acid rain. It is formed through the release of SO2 (sulfur dioxide) and NOx (nitrogen oxides) into the air by burning fossil fuels like oil and coal.
These pollutants combine with water vapor and other substances in the atmosphere, forming acidic substances that drop back to the earth as snow, fog or rain.
Impact on Ecosystems
Different ecosystems are adversely affected by acid rain. In forests, it can damage leaves, deplete nutrients in soil and weaken trees so that they become more susceptible to diseases, harsh weather conditions, and insects. Similarly, aquatic ecosystems are also greatly impacted by this phenomenon.
It leads to a lower pH level in water bodies, which increases its acidity levels. This change can be harmful or even lethal for fish and other aquatic species, thereby disrupting the whole food chain.
Damage to Buildings and Monuments
Acid rain does not only affect natural habitats; it also destroys man-made structures. A lot of buildings and monuments, especially those made from limestone as well as marble, can be corroded due to acid rain. The minerals in these stones disintegrate over time when exposed to acids, resulting in such outcomes. This has an impact not only on their appearance but also causes expensive repairs, hence maintenance practices.
Health Effects on Humans
While acid rain does not directly harm humans, it can have indirect health effects. The pollutants that cause acid rain—sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides—can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis, especially in children and the elderly.
These pollutants can also contribute to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is harmful when inhaled, leading to serious health issues like heart disease and lung cancer. In contrast
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