Acid Deposition Concepts

Questions and Answers

Any form of precipitation with acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere in wet or dry forms.

Rain

Snow

Fog

All of the above (correct)

A chemical reaction that begins when compounds like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are released into the air.

It affects soil, water, various living creatures, and plants. Signup and view all the answers

It can harm fish and other wildlife in aquatic environments. Signup and view all the answers

Some species are acid-sensitive and may die or fail to thrive under acidic conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Acid deposition refers to precipitation containing acids, such as sulfuric or nitric acid, falling to the ground in various forms including wet or dry.

It includes various forms of precipitation like rain, snow, fog, hail, and can also manifest as acidic dust.

The phenomenon is initiated by a chemical reaction involving the release of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere.

Acid deposition impacts soil and water quality, affecting various plant species and wildlife, leading to disruptions in whole ecosystems.

The most pronounced ecological effects are observed in aquatic environments such as streams, lakes, and marshes, where acid rain threatens fish and other aquatic life.
Acidic rainwater can leach aluminum from soil, which then contaminates water bodies.

Some organisms can withstand acidic waters, but many, especially young individuals, are more vulnerable to pH changes.
Critical thresholds for species include pH levels around 5 for fish egg hatching and tolerance diminishes further at lower pH levels.
Certain lakes may become fishless due to excessive acidity.
Predatory species, like frogs, have specific pH tolerances, and their food sources, such as mayflies, may not endure low pH environments, creating secondary ecological impacts.