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Acid Rain (i) Explain how acid rain occurs - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2010
Question B
Acid Rain (i) Explain how acid rain occurs. (ii) Name and describe two effects of acid rain. (iii) Suggest two actions that could be taken to reduce these effects... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Acid Rain (i) Explain how acid rain occurs - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2010
Step 1
Explain how acid rain occurs.
Answer
Acid rain occurs when sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) are released into the atmosphere, primarily through the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. These pollutants react with water vapor, oxygen, and other trace chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and nitric acid (HNO₃). When it rains, these acids fall to the ground along with precipitation, resulting in acid rain.
The process can be summarized as follows:
- Emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
- Chemical reactions in the atmosphere.
- Formation of acids which precipitate as acid rain.
Step 2
Name and describe two effects of acid rain.
Answer
Effect 1: Damage to Aquatic Ecosystems
Acid rain significantly lowers the pH of water bodies, making them more acidic. This affects fish and other aquatic life by disrupting their reproductive cycles and leading to increased mortality rates. Species that cannot tolerate lower pH levels, such as certain fish and frogs, may face extinction in severely affected waters.
Effect 2: Damage to Vegetation
Acid rain can harm forests and crops by leaching vital nutrients from the soil. This nutrient depletion affects plant growth and can lead to weakened trees that become more susceptible to pests and diseases. The effects can be particularly devastating in sensitive forest ecosystems.
Step 3
Suggest two actions that could be taken to reduce these effects.
Answer
Action 1: Implementing Stricter Emission Regulations
Governments can enforce stricter regulations on industries to limit the production of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. This could involve setting legal limits for emissions and promoting cleaner technologies, such as scrubbers and catalytic converters, to reduce air pollutants.
Action 2: Promoting Renewable Energy Sources
Encouraging the transition to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power can significantly reduce dependency on fossil fuels, thereby decreasing the emissions that contribute to acid rain. Public incentives and subsidies for renewable energy projects can facilitate this transition.