2023 · Q30
Which one of the following is the main cause of the acid rains?
general-sciencechemistry
- AThe Sun causes heating of upper layer of atmosphere.
- BThe burning of fossil fuels releases oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur in the atmosphere.
- CThe electrical charges are produced due to friction amongst clouds.
- DThe atmosphere of the Earth contains acids.
Explanation
Acid rain is caused principally by oxides of sulphur and nitrogen released when fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum are burned in power plants, industries and vehicles. In the atmosphere these oxidise and dissolve to form sulphuric and nitric acids, which fall as acid precipitation. Solar heating, cloud friction and ambient atmospheric acids are not its cause. Hence option B.