Acid Rain
Published on Nov 20, 2015
No Description
MORE DECKS TO EXPLORE
PRESENTATION OUTLINE
What is Acid Rain?
Acid rain is any form of precipitation that has become unusually acidic due to pollution and contains an excessive amount of nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide. Acid rain measures around 4 on the pH scale, normal rain should measure around 5-6.
Photo by matthileo
Causes
Both natural and man-made sources can result in acid rain. The most significant cause is the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides due to combustion of fossil fuels. These gases react with water, oxygen and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form various acidic compounds. These compounds are carried over large areas by wind and finally fall to the ground through a form of precipitation, often rain.
Photo by k.l.macke
Impact on the Environment
Acid rain has a major negative impact on the environment. Acid rain that falls into any aquatic environment can alter the pH of the water a inhibiting the survival of various plant and animal species. Acid rain on soil can kill useful micro-organisms and leach nutrients of soil causing infertile soil. Due to acid's corrosive nature, it also has an effect on forest, architecture and buildings. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide gases in the atmosphere degrades visibility and can cause accidents, leading to injuries and deaths.
Location
- Acid rain has not been a major issue to date within Australia due to the relatively low emission and isolated geographical location. It mostly occurs in North to Central Australia
- The effects of acid rain is most evident in Europe and North America
- Countries that have a history of high sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emission or are located near such countries experience more acid rain
Possible Solutions
The most effective solution to acid rain is to reduce the burning of fossil fuels and therefore reducing the amount of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emission. Alternatives include wind, solar and hydro energy. Individuals can conserve energy to reduce the necessity of fossil fuels.
Photo by Black Rock Solar
