Acid deposition results from
A) carbonic acids dissolved from atmospheric carbon dioxide.
B) nitric acid and sulfuric acid, formed from nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.
C) hydrocarbons, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
D) hydrochloric acid, formed from the combination of hydrogen chloride and water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acid deposition, also known as acid rain, is caused by the emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide from industrial processes and burning of fossil fuels. These chemicals react with water, oxygen, and other compounds in the atmosphere to form nitric acid and sulfuric acid, which then fall to the ground as acid rain. Carbonic acids from atmospheric carbon dioxide can also contribute, but this is a minor factor compared to the effects of nitric and sulfuric acid. Hydrocarbons, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide are pollutants that can contribute to air pollution but are not directly responsible for acid deposition. Hydrochloric acid is not a major contributor to acid deposition in the atmosphere.

Acid Deposition Results from