Chemistry: Molecular Approach (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134112830
ISBN 13: 978-0-13411-283-1

Chapter 16 - Exercises - Page 771: 31

Answer

Acid rain is a phenomenon caused by the combination of sulfuric acid, nitric acid and rain. It occurs due to the reaction of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide with oxygen and water present in the air to form these strong acids. These dioxides come from the combustion of fossil fuels, and they reach the atmosphere if the results of the combustion are not treated appropriately. Due to the corrosive properties of strong acids, acid rain is able to dissolve metals present in bridges, railroads and automobiles. They also react with carbonate ions, harming marble, cement and limestone structures. If the rain falls into rivers and lakes, it can decrease the pH of water, harming the aquatic life. And trees also are damaged by the acid present in the soil after the acid rain.

Work Step by Step

Acid rain is a phenomenon caused by the combination of sulfuric acid, nitric acid and rain. It occurs due to the reaction of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide with oxygen and water present in the air to form these strong acids. These dioxides come from the combustion of fossil fuels, and they reach the atmosphere if the results of the combustion are not treated appropriately. Due to the corrosive properties of strong acids, acid rain is able to dissolve metals present in bridges, railroads and automobiles. They also react with carbonate ions, harming marble, cement and limestone structures. If the rain falls into rivers and lakes, it can decrease the pH of water, harming the aquatic life. And trees also are damaged by the acid present in the soil after the acid rain.
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