Which Gases Cause Acid Rain?

Gases Responsible for Acid Rain

The primary gases responsible for acid rain are:

• Carbon dioxide & carbon monoxide

The gaseous forms of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and carbon monoxide (CO) may combine with atmospheric water vapour to result in carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which dissolves into rainwater as one of the components of acid rain. When these gases reach the troposphere, one of the layers of our atmosphere, the chemical reaction begins, resulting in the formation of carbonic acid.

• Sulphur dioxide

Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) released into the atmosphere reacts with hydroxyl free radicals to form a harmful chemical product called the hydrogen sulphate free radical. This chemical product then reacts with atmospheric oxygen to produce another compound called sulphur trioxide which mingles with atmospheric water vapour to result in sulfuric acid, a highly corrosive and damaging substance. Sulfuric acid is one of the components of acid rain. Apart from the above-mentioned chemical pathway, sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) may also form as a result of hydrolysis of gaseous sulphur dioxide. Hydrolysis is simply the chemical reaction between sulphur dioxide gas and atmospheric water vapour. The end product of this chemical reaction may also undergo various equilibrium reactions, resulting in the formation of sulfuric acid.

• Nitrogen dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in its gaseous form mingles with atmospheric hydroxide free radicals to produce a chemical compound called nitric acid (HNO₃). Apart from this, nitric acid can also be produced due to certain environmental occurrences, such as lightning. The immense electrical energy discharged into the atmosphere during lightning can facilitate the formation of nitric acid through the chemical combination of water and nitrogen oxides.

FAQs

1. Does acid rain have any colour or smell?

No, acid rain does not have any particular colour or smell. However, rain falling on certain stone surfaces may change the colour of the stone to a yellowish or orangish hue.

2. What health issues does acid rain cause?

Acid rain can cause various respiratory diseases, such as asthma and bronchitis.

3. Does acid rain burn the skin?

Acid rain contains weaker acids and, therefore, cannot burn the skin.

4. How are acid rain-causing gases released into the air?

Vehicle exhaust, fumes released during the burning of fossil fuels, electricity generation, and emissions from manufacturing plants and oil refineries can release such gases into the air.

5. How to prevent acid rain?

The phenomenon of acid rain can be prevented by following these steps:

• Reducing fossil fuel usage

• Adopting cleaner transportation methods

• Using renewable energy sources

• Incorporating energy efficiency into everyday life