Acid Rain

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What is acid rain?

Back

Acid rain is precipitation that has a lower pH than normal rainwater, typically below 5.6, due to the presence of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere.

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What are the main components that cause acid rain?

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The main components that cause acid rain are sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are released into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels.

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What is the pH level of acid rain?

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Acid rain typically has a pH level between 4.2 and 4.4.

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What is wet deposition?

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Wet deposition refers to the process by which acidic pollutants are removed from the atmosphere through precipitation, such as rain or snow.

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What is dry deposition?

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Dry deposition occurs when acidic pollutants settle out of the atmosphere onto surfaces without the aid of precipitation.

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How does acid rain affect human health?

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Acid rain can exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma and can lead to heart problems in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

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What are the environmental impacts of acid rain?

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Acid rain can harm aquatic ecosystems, damage forests, and degrade soil quality by leaching essential nutrients.

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What is the Acid Rain Program?

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The Acid Rain Program is a regulatory initiative aimed at reducing SO2 and NOx emissions to mitigate the effects of acid rain.

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What are the two phases of SO2 and NOx emissions reduction programs?

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The two phases involve implementing regulations to gradually reduce emissions from power plants and other industrial sources.

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What is the significance of a pH level below 7?

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A pH level below 7 indicates acidity; the lower the pH, the more acidic the solution.