AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -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.

Detailed explanation-2: -Acid rain is caused by the release of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, where they react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to become sulfuric and nitric acid respectively. The pH of acid-impacted rain is generally below 4.5 on the pH scale.

Detailed explanation-3: -Acid rain is formed high up in the atmosphere when SO2 and NO2 combine with water and sunlight. When this reaction forms acid it falls to the ground in the form of acid rain or snow.

Detailed explanation-4: -Breathing either sulfur dioxide (SO2) or nitrogen oxides (NOx) for short periods (24 hrs or less) can cause adverse respiratory effects such as airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, asthma symptoms, emergency department visits and hospital admissions, especially for those with asthma or respiratory illnesses [2].

Detailed explanation-5: -Environmental effects When sulfur dioxide combines with water and air, it forms sulfuric acid, which is the main component of acid rain. Acid rain can: cause deforestation. acidify waterways to the detriment of aquatic life.