Question

Fill in the blanks with the correct word or words. What combines with moisture in the air to form acid rain? A) ozone C) lead B) sulfur oxides D) oxygen

Short answer

Sulfur oxides (B) combine with moisture to form acid rain.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

We need to identify which of the given substances can react with moisture in the air to form acid rain.

Define Acid Rain

Acid rain is rain that has been made acidic by certain pollutants in the air. The primary substances that contribute to acid rain are sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides.

Consider the Options

Examine each option to determine if it is known to combine with atmospheric moisture to form acid rain. These options are ozone, lead, sulfur oxides, and oxygen.

Analyze Option B (Sulfur Oxides)

Sulfur oxides, such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), react with water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), a major component of acid rain.

Verify the Other Options

Ozone (A) does not form acid rain; it contributes to smog. Lead (C) is a toxic metal and does not directly form acid rain. Oxygen (D) is a major component of air but does not cause acid rain.

Choose the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, sulfur oxides (Option B) are the compounds that combine with moisture in the air to form acid rain.

Key concepts

Sulfur Oxides

Sulfur oxides are important compounds in the atmosphere, primarily released from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. These oxides include sulfur dioxide \( \text{SO}_2 \) and sulfur trioxide \( \text{SO}_3 \). When released into the air, these gases can travel long distances and react with water vapor. This reaction forms sulfuric acid \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \), a major component of acid rain, which can damage ecosystems, buildings, and health. To reduce sulfur oxide emissions, industries can use cleaner technologies and employ scrubbers that capture these gases before they are released.

Environmental Science

Environmental science explores the interactions between humans and natural systems, focusing on problems like pollution and its effects on ecosystems. One major concern is acid rain, which results from human activities that release sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. This type of pollution can lead to the acidification of lakes and streams, harming aquatic life, and damaging forests by leaching essential nutrients from the soil.
By understanding these processes, scientists can develop strategies to minimize pollution impacts and promote sustainable development, helping society live in harmony with the environment.

Atmospheric Chemistry

Atmospheric chemistry is the study of the chemical composition and reactions that occur in Earth's atmosphere. It is crucial in understanding how pollutants like sulfur oxides transform once released. When sulfur dioxide \( \text{SO}_2 \) rises into the atmosphere, it can undergo a series of chemical reactions involving sunlight and other pollutants, eventually forming sulfuric acid. This acid then combines with rainwater, creating acid rain.
Scientists use atmospheric chemistry to predict the transport and transformation of these pollutants, helping policymakers enforce regulations that mitigate their harmful effects.

Pollutants

Pollutants are substances introduced into the environment that cause harm or discomfort to ecosystems or humans. Some key pollutants that contribute to acid rain include sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides. Sources of these pollutants mainly include industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and the burning of fossil fuels.
These substances can alter the natural balance of ecosystems by increasing the acidity of waterways, harming fish and plant life.
By regulating emissions and encouraging cleaner energy sources, we can reduce the levels of these harmful pollutants and protect both our environment and public health.