WJEC Biology Practice Exam

The primary cause of acid rain is emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. When these pollutants are released from industrial processes, power plants, and vehicles, they react with water vapor, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids. These acids then mix with rainwater, leading to acid rain. Acid rain can have detrimental effects on the environment, including damage to forests, lakes, and soils, as well as harm to aquatic life and buildings. This phenomenon highlights the importance of monitoring and regulating emissions of these substances to protect ecosystems and human structures. Understanding the sources and processes involved in acid rain formation is crucial for developing strategies to reduce its occurrence and mitigate its effects.