Rain is primarily composed of water, which is made up of molecules consisting of atoms. The main atoms that make up the water molecules in rain are:
- Hydrogen (H): Each water molecule (H₂O) contains two hydrogen atoms.
- Oxygen (O): Each water molecule also contains one oxygen atom.
When rain falls, it may also pick up small amounts of impurities and other substances from the atmosphere, which can include:
- Dissolved gases: Such as oxygen (O₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
- Salts and minerals: Such as sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) from ocean spray or dust.
- Pollutants: Such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from industrial activities.
However, the primary component of rainwater is still H₂O, made up of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.