What is Acid Rain?
Acid rain refers to any form of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) that has a lower pH than normal, making it more acidic. This phenomenon is primarily caused by the release of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) into the atmosphere, which can originate from human activities like burning fossil fuels, industrial processes, and vehicle emissions.
Causes of Acid Rain
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂):
- Released from power plants and factories.
- Combustion of coal and oil is a significant source.
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ):
- Produced from vehicle exhaust and industrial activities.
- Contributes to the formation of nitric acid in the atmosphere.
Effects of Acid Rain
- Environmental Impact:
- Harms aquatic ecosystems by lowering the pH of water bodies.
- Affects soil chemistry, leading to nutrient leaching.
- Vegetation Damage:
- Can harm plants and trees by leaching essential nutrients from the soil.
- Weakens trees, making them more susceptible to disease and pests.
- Infrastructure Deterioration:
- Accelerates the decay of buildings and monuments, especially those made of limestone and marble.
- Increased maintenance costs for structures.
Prevention and Mitigation
- Regulations:
- Implementing stricter emissions standards for industries and vehicles.
- Renewable Energy:
- Promoting the use of cleaner energy sources, such as wind and solar power.
- Public Awareness:
- Educating communities about the sources and effects of acid rain to foster responsible behavior.
Understanding acid rain is crucial for protecting our environment and ensuring a sustainable future.

Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere in wet or dry forms.