Pollutants That Cause Acid Rain

The primary drivers of acid rain are sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ).

• SO₂ comes mainly from burning sulfur-containing fossil fuels (coal, oil) at power plants, industrial facilities, and vehicles. It reacts with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄).
• NOₓ (NO, NO₂) originates from fossil fuel combustion and lightning. It forms nitric acid (HNO₃) in the atmosphere.

Both acids fall as acid rain, harming aquatic ecosystems, forests, soils, buildings, and human health. Mitigation includes emission regulations, cleaner fuels, and renewable energy.