which of the following gases are responsible for acid rain
Which of the following gases are responsible for acid rain?
Acid rain is primarily caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which react with the atmosphere and form sulfuric acid and nitric acid, respectively. These acidic compounds then combine with water in the atmosphere and fall to the ground as acid rain. Other gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), can also contribute to the acidity of rain, although to a lesser extent compared to SO2 and NOx.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is mainly released into the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and oil. It is also produced by industrial processes, particularly those involving the combustion of sulfur-containing materials. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are primarily generated from the burning of fossil fuels in vehicles, power plants, and industrial activities.
The emissions of these gases contribute to air pollution, and when they combine with moisture in the atmosphere, they form sulfuric acid and nitric acid. These acid droplets can then be carried by wind currents over long distances and fall as acid rain, causing harmful effects on the environment, ecosystems, and human health.
It is important to regulate and reduce the emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides to mitigate the occurrence of acid rain. Many countries have implemented regulations and technologies to reduce these emissions, such as using cleaner fuels, implementing emission control devices, and promoting renewable energy sources.