How does acid rain result from air pollution?

Acid rain results from air pollution when sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are released into the atmosphere and react with water.

Air pollution is a significant contributor to the formation of acid rain. This process begins when certain harmful gases are released into the atmosphere, primarily sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These gases are primarily produced by industrial processes, such as the burning of fossil fuels in power plants, factories, and vehicles.

Once these gases are in the atmosphere, they can react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulphuric acid and nitric acid. These acids then mix with water vapour in the atmosphere, creating acidic compounds. When this water vapour condenses and falls as precipitation, it is known as acid rain.

Acid rain can have a significant impact on the environment. It can damage buildings and monuments, harm aquatic life by making water bodies too acidic, and can also affect plant growth by altering the pH of the soil.

In addition to these environmental impacts, acid rain can also have serious health effects. For example, the pollutants that cause acid rain, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, can cause respiratory problems in humans when inhaled.

Therefore, reducing air pollution is crucial in mitigating the effects of acid rain. This can be achieved through various means, such as using cleaner forms of energy, implementing stricter emission standards for industries, and promoting the use of public transport to reduce vehicle emissions.