Question

discuss the source and impact of acid rain ​

Answer 1

Acid rain :-

The precipitation of acid in atmosphere of ph less than 5.6.

Source :-

Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide interact with water vapours in presence of sunlight to form sulphuric acid and nitric acid mist. The sulphuric acid and nitric acid, thus, formed remain as vapour under high temperature and begin to condense slowly as the temperature falls. These acids mix with rain or snow, i.e., rain water gets acidified on its way down to the earth. The acidified rain-water eventually mixes with already existing water in the earth. The resulting pH will determine the pH of the aquatic environment.

Reaction :-

SO2 + H2O ➝ H2SO3

SO2 + O3 ➝ SO3 + O2

SO3 + H2O ➝ H2SO4

NO + ½O2 ➝ NO2 -(catalyst :- H2O)➝ HNO3 + HNO2

O2 + O ➝ O3

Impact :-

• Damage to animals : Most aquatic animals cannot survive when the pH is less than 4 & die even when the pH is less than 5.5.

• Damage to plants : Acidic water is dangerous for plants. Leat pigments are decolourised, ie, chlorophyll is affected and agricultural productivity is decreased.

• Material damage : Metallic surfaces exposed to acid rain are readily corroded.

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