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Acid rain
Its formation and its effects
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Acid rain is rain or any other form of precipitation that is unusually acidic, meaning that it has elevated levels of hydrogen ions. Most water, including drinking water, has a neutral pH that exists between 6.5 and 8.5, but acid rain has a pH level lower than this and ranges from 4–5 on average.
Formation of Acid rain :
Acid rain is caused by a chemical reaction that begins when compounds like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are released into the air. These substances can rise very high into the atmosphere, where they mix and react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form more acidic pollutants, known as acid rain.
Effects of Acid Rain :
1. Acidification effect human nervous system, respiratory system and digestive system.
2. Acid contaminates with potable water and enter man’s body. The heavy metals released by acid rain may cause potential threat to human health.
3. Acidification of drinking water reservoirs and concurrent increase in heavy metal concentration may cause injurious effects.
4. Acidic water can also leach aluminium from the soil. This runÂoff carry dissolved aluminium to lakes, rivers and streams. This cause death of fish by clogging its gills and deprives it of oxygen.
5. Snails, clams, oysters etc. having their shells of calcium carbonate are among the forest animals to die in acidic lakes.
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Acid rain is formed when certain pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, are released into the atmosphere and react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form acidic compounds. These compounds then fall to the ground as rain, snow, sleet, or fog, and can have harmful effects on the environment and human health.
The effects of acid rain include:
1. Damage to vegetation: High levels of acidity make it difficult for plants to absorb nutrients and can damage plant leaves and roots, leading to lower crop yields and deforestation.
2. Harm to aquatic life: Acid rain can lower the pH of bodies of water, which can be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms.
3. Corrosion of buildings: Acid rain can cause damage to buildings, monuments, and other structures made of stone or metal, leading to costly repairs and maintenance.
4. Human health: Acid rain can worsen respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis, and increase the risk of heart disease.
To prevent acid rain, it is important to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from sources such as power plants, factories, and automobiles. This can be achieved through the use of cleaner technologies and alternative sources of energy, such as wind and solar power.