Chemistry: Molecular Approach (4th Edition)

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

Chapter 16 - Exercises - Page 771: 32

Answer

Acid rain is able to dissolve metals present in bridges, railroads and automobiles. It also reacts 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. Trees also are damaged by the acid present in the soil after the acid rain. In order to address and reduce the problem of acid rain, the U.S. Congress passed amendments to the Clean Air Act. They forced electrical utilities to lower their $SO_2$ emissions, which decreased the pollutant levels by 76% in the U.S. since it was implemented. This had effects on the acidity of rain and the recovery of lakes.

Work Step by Step

Acid rain is able to dissolve metals present in bridges, railroads and automobiles. It also reacts 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. Trees also are damaged by the acid present in the soil after the acid rain. In order to address and reduce the problem of acid rain, the U.S. Congress passed amendments to the Clean Air Act. They forced electrical utilities to lower their $SO_2$ emissions, which decreased the pollutant levels by 76% in the U.S. since it was implemented. This had effects on the acidity of rain and the recovery of lakes.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.