What is the main cause of acid rain?

The main cause of acid rain is emissions from industrial sources and vehicles. When fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are burned, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere. These gases can react with water, oxygen, and other substances in the air to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When these acids mix with rainwater, they create acid rain, which can harm aquatic ecosystems, vegetation, and even human-made structures.

Understanding the sources of these emissions is crucial, as they are primarily linked to human activities, including industrial production and the combustion of gasoline and diesel in vehicles. This awareness underlines the importance of regulating emissions to mitigate acid rain's harmful effects.