key term - Acid Rain

Definition

Acid rain refers to rainfall that has become acidic due to atmospheric pollution containing sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These pollutants react with water vapor in the atmosphere, forming sulfuric acid and nitric acid, which then fall to the ground as rain.

Related terms

pH Scale:

A measure of acidity or alkalinity ranging from 0 to 14, where values below 7 indicate acidity.

Erosion:

Acid rain can accelerate the erosion of buildings, statues, and natural features by corroding their surfaces.

Aquatic Life Decline: The increased acidity in bodies of water caused by acid rain can harm aquatic organisms and disrupt ecosystems.