Lakes lying in granite basins,such as those in the northeastern U.S.,tend to become acidified by acid rain more readily than lakes lying in limestone basins,such as those found in the midwestern U.S.Why is this so?
A)The granite contains acidic minerals that dissolve in the rain water and are added to the lakes.
B)Since the acidified water cannot percolate through the granite,the acid in the lakes becomes more concentrated.
C)The limestone,which is calcium carbonate,serves to neutralize the acid in the rain.
D)There is more acid rain in the northeast than in the midwestern regions of the U.S.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Limestone, which is calcium carbonate, acts as a buffer and neutralizes the acid in the rain, helping to maintain a more neutral pH in the lakes. Granite, on the other hand, does not have this ability and can contribute to the acidification of the lakes. Therefore, lakes lying in granite basins tend to become acidified by acid rain more readily than lakes lying in limestone basins. Choices A and B are partially correct but do not explain the whole reason why lakes in granite basins are more susceptible to acid rain. Choice D is incorrect because acid rain affects both regions equally, but the geological composition of the basins plays a vital role in determining the susceptibility of the lakes to acidification.

Lakes Lying in Granite Basins,such as Those in the Northeastern