Question

What is the main cause of acid rain?

• A. Emission of carbon dioxide from vehicles.
• B. Release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from refrigerators.
• C. Combustion of fossil fuels, releasing sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides.
• D. Deforestation and land use changes.

Hint:

The primary cause of acid rain is the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which combine with water vapor to form sulfuric and nitric acids in the atmosphere.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding acid rain.
Acid rain is caused by the release of pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere. These pollutants mix with water vapor, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere, leading to the formation of sulfuric and nitric acids.

Step 2: Explanation of options.
- (A) Emission of carbon dioxide from vehicles: While CO2 is a greenhouse gas, it does not contribute to acid rain.
- (B) Release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): CFCs contribute to ozone depletion, not acid rain.
- (C) Combustion of fossil fuels, releasing sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides: This is the correct cause of acid rain. When fossil fuels are burned, they release sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, which combine with water to form acids.
- (D) Deforestation and land use changes: Deforestation can lead to environmental degradation but does not directly cause acid rain.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, the main cause of acid rain is the combustion of fossil fuels, which releases sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

Final Answer: Combustion of fossil fuels, releasing sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides.