Question

Acid rains are produced by
A. Excess \[S{O_2}\] and \[N{O_2}\] from burning fossil fuels
B. Excess production of \[N{H_3}\] by industries and power plants
C. Excess release of carbon monoxide by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels
D. Excess release of \[C{O_2}\] by combustion and animal respiration

Answer 1

Hint: Acid rain refers to the several ways in which acids from the atmosphere are deposited on the earth. It includes wet and dry deposition. Wet deposition includes the acidic water received through rain, fog and snow. Dry deposition refers to the windblown acidic gases and particles in the atmosphere which settle down on the ground.

Complete answer:
Sulfur dioxide is the major constituent in the emission when sulfur-containing coal is burnt. It is also emitted by the ore smelters and oil refineries. Its high concentration in the air causes severe respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, irritation in the eyes, etc.
Nitrogen oxides are formed mainly from nitrogen and oxygen formed during the combustion of fossil fuels at high temperatures in automobile engines. Nitrogen oxides cause the reddish-brown haze in traffic congested city areas.
Both \[S{O_2}\] and \[N{O_2}\] contribute to the acid rain because they combine with the water droplets to produce nitric acid, sulfuric acid and other acids.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that causes several harmful effects on the environment like it affects the amount of other greenhouse gases present in the environment and thus contributes to global warming.

The Correct option: A. Excess \[N{O_2}\] and \[S{O_2}\] from burning fossil fuels

Note: Acid rains adversely affects terrestrial and aquatic vegetation. The low pH conditions damage soil microbial communities as most planktons, molluscs, and etc. cannot tolerate water with low pH. Acid rain is also harmful to agriculture, trees and plants as it dissolves and washes away the nutrients needed for their growth. It also causes respiratory ailments in human beings and animals.