Pollution that falls out of the atmosphere that originated from a factory is nonpoint, or secondary source, pollution with the factory being the point, or primary source, of the pollution. Is acid rain a point source (primary) or nonpoint source (secondary) of pollution? What is the effect of acid rain on the environment?

Answer 1

Acid rain is a nonpoint source (secondary) of pollution, as it forms when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides emitted by various sources such as factories, power plants, and vehicles, mix with atmospheric water molecules. Hence, no single primary source can be attributed to its creation.

The effect of acid rain on the environment is multiple-fold. Firstly, it causes the acidification of soil and water bodies, which can harm crops, forests, and aquatic life. Secondly, it increases the acidity of water bodies, which can make them inhospitable for fish and other aquatic life. Thirdly, it damages buildings, monuments, and other infrastructure made of limestone or marble, which dissolve in acidic water. Fourthly, it exacerbates respiratory problems in humans and animals, as the acid particles can enter the lungs directly and cause irritation. Hence, controlling acid rain is essential to protect both the environment and public health.