Lakes in the midwestern United States that have experienced sustained acid precipitation over many years have gradually

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acid precipitation is caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides that react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid, respectively. When these acids dissolve in water bodies, they can lower the pH and cause acidification. Limestone, which contains calcium carbonate, acts as a buffer that can neutralize the acid and prevent pH from decreasing. However, over time, the buffering capacity of limestone may be depleted, leading to a decrease in pH. Therefore, the best choice is D, which states that lakes in the midwestern United States that have experienced sustained acid precipitation over many years have gradually decreased their pH because of the depletion of the buffering effects of limestone.

Lakes in the Midwestern United States That Have Experienced Sustained