What is Acid Rain?

Rain or any other type of precipitation that is unusually acidic is described as an acid rain. Acid rain has harmful effects on plant life, trees, aquatic animals, and the planet’s infrastructure, such as buildings and homes. To learn more about what exactly acid rain is, go to EPA , Policy Almanac and Pubs . For information geared towards children’s learning, go to Surf Net Kids and Ace .

Causes of Acid Rain

Different chemicals that are released into the atmosphere by humans are the main cause of acid rain occurring. Power plants are one of the major culprits that release large amounts of Nitrous Oxide and Sulfur Dioxide , the two main causes of acid rain, when they burn fuels such as coal. To learn more about what causes acid rain to occur, go to Acid Rain, Angel Fire and GA Water .

Dangers of Acid Rain

Acid rain causes damage to plants and vegetation, as well as buildings. If there was no acid rain, homes and buildings would not need to be repaired as often. Aquatic life may be poisoned, and become unfit for human consumption. To read more, go to Ovi Health and Acid Rain Dangers. To learn about the history of acid rain and the problems it can cause, go to Book Rags . For facts, videos and related articles concerning acid rain, go to Encyclopedia .

Acid Rain and Damage

Acid rain has been blamed on the decline of forests in certain areas, explained at Science Daily . Acid rain in Norway has caused the acidification of the area’s bodies of lakes, causing the loss of large quantities of fish stock. Read more at Environment . For more information on the damages that acid rain has already caused, go to EPA , Enfo and Biologists and Acid Rain . The information at Science a Go-Go helps put in perspective the dangers of acid rain on the environment.

What Can Be Done about Acid Rain?

Everyone can control their actions to help lower the amount of acid rain that occurs. Things like using less electricity can help, as do alternative energy sources like wind and solar power. Those who drive vehicles that use natural gas or are battery-powered can help control acid rain. Walking and using public transportation instead of driving is also an excellent solution. For causes, effects and solutions, visit this page and What Can You Do. This webquest offers dozens of helpful tips that everyone can utilize. For kids, Young Peoples Trust and Thinkquest offer excellent advice on what can be done to prevent acid rain.