Compounds of which elements combine with water to produce acid rain

Answer 1

Acid rain is primarily caused by the release of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) into the atmosphere. When these compounds combine with water vapor in the air, they form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and nitric acid (HNO₃), respectively.

1. Sulfur Compounds:

   • Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): Comes from the burning of fossil fuels and industrial processes. It reacts with water in the atmosphere to form sulfurous acid (H₂SO₃), which can further oxidize to form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄).

2. Nitrogen Compounds:

   • Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ): These include nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). They are produced from vehicle emissions, power plants, and industrial activities. When NO₂ reacts with water, it forms nitric acid (HNO₃).

These acids contribute to the acidity of precipitation, which is referred to as acid rain. The main elements involved in forming these compounds that lead to acid rain are sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N).