Solar Energy & Acid Rain Overview

Solar panels have few moving parts, requiring minimal maintenance. They may only need cleaning occasionally to remove dust or dirt.

Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity using photovoltaic cells, which are like devices that turn sunlight into power.

Solar batteries store the energy generated by solar panels during the day for use at night or when sunlight is limited.

Solar energy is clean and environmentally friendly as it doesn't produce harmful pollution like burning fossil fuels do.

Solar energy is a renewable source of energy because the sun is a constant source of power, unlike oil or coal which eventually run out.

The initial cost of installing solar panels and equipment can be high, though it might pay off over time with reduced electricity bills.

Solar panels need sufficient space to be effective, which can be a challenge for small homes or limited roof areas.

Solar energy depends on sunlight, so areas with less sunlight like cloudy regions or during winter months have decreased output.

Rainwater that is made acidic by pollutants from burning fossil fuels, like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

The release of ammonia gas into the atmosphere from agricultural practices like fertilizer use and animal waste.

The process of converting nitrogen gas (N₂) into a form that plants can use, like nitrates.

Lightning acts as a natural catalyst for nitrogen fixation, breaking nitrogen gas bonds and forming nitrogen oxides.

Nitrogen oxides from lightning combine with water and form nitrates, which are absorbed by plants and used for growth.

A gas produced by burning coal or oil, it reacts with water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid, a key component of acid rain. Volcanic eruptions also release sulfur dioxide naturally.

Gases released from burning fossil fuels in cars, trucks, and factories. They combine with water vapor to form nitric acid, contributing to acid rain.

While not the main contributor, CO₂ combines with water to form carbonic acid, slightly increasing the acidity of rainwater.

Released from agricultural activities like fertilizers and animal waste, ammonia reacts with acids in the air to contribute to rain acidification.

Acid rain lowers the pH of lakes, rivers, and streams, increasing acidity. This harms aquatic life, disrupting the food chain.

The acidity in rain damages leaves, hindering photosynthesis and nutrient absorption, weakening trees and making them susceptible to disease.

Acid rain leaches essential nutrients from soil, making it less fertile and impacting plant growth.

Burning coal releases sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, both key contributors to acid rain.