Explain using balanced equations how sulfuric acid in rainwater is formed from sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2017
Question A
Explain using balanced equations how sulfuric acid in rainwater is formed from sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain using balanced equations how sulfuric acid in rainwater is formed from sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2017
Step 1
Step 1: Formation of Sulfur Dioxide
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Answer
Sulfur dioxide ( ext{SO}_2) is produced from the combustion of fossil fuels, releasing sulfur into the atmosphere. The balanced equation for this reaction can be expressed as:
ightarrow ext{SO}_2$$
Step 2
Step 2: Oxidation of Sulfur Dioxide
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Answer
In the atmosphere, sulfur dioxide can react with oxygen ( ext{O}_2) under certain conditions (such as sunlight) to produce sulfur trioxide ( ext{SO}_3):
ightarrow ext{2SO}_3$$
Step 3
Step 3: Formation of Sulfuric Acid
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Answer
Sulfur trioxide then reacts with water ( ext{H}_2 ext{O}) in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid ( ext{H}_2 ext{SO}_4) as follows:
ightarrow ext{H}_2 ext{SO}_4$$
This sulfuric acid can then be dissolved in rainwater, contributing to acid rain.
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