Photo AI
Acid Rain (i) Explain two effects of acid rain - Junior Cycle Geography - Question C. - 2015
Question C.
Acid Rain (i) Explain two effects of acid rain. (ii) Describe two ways of reducing acid rain.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Acid Rain (i) Explain two effects of acid rain - Junior Cycle Geography - Question C. - 2015
Step 1
Explain two effects of acid rain.
Answer
-
Effect on Ecosystems: Acid rain significantly alters the pH levels in soil and water bodies, which can be detrimental to aquatic life and plant growth. Aquatic ecosystems experience harm as the increased acidity can lead to the loss of important species such as fish and amphibians, disrupting the food chain.
-
Corrosion of Structures: Buildings and monuments, especially those made from limestone or marble, suffer accelerated degradation due to acid rain. The chemical reaction between sulfuric and nitric acids in the rain and the calcium carbonate in these materials leads to erosion and damage over time.
Step 2
Describe two ways of reducing acid rain.
Answer
-
Reducing Emissions of Sulfur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxides: Implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions and promoting cleaner energy sources can significantly reduce the pollutants that contribute to acid rain. For example, transitioning from coal to natural gas or renewable energy can lower sulfur dioxide emissions.
-
Promoting Public Transportation and Electric Vehicles: Encouraging the use of public transportation and electric vehicles helps reduce the number of fossil fuel-burning vehicles on the road. This change can significantly decrease nitrogen oxides emitted from car exhausts, further mitigating acid rain formation.