For some years now, there has been talk of a very peculiar type of rain. Unlike the rain we all know, which allows rivers to flow and fills the water reserves we consume, there is another type that causes significant damage to the environment: acid rain.
This phenomenon, although originating in the sky, is caused by pollution here in the biosphere. Nuclear power plants, cars, and pesticides are just some of the reasons why the Earth as a whole is losing its natural balance.
What is acid rain?
This is one of the consequences of pollution, specifically air pollution. When any fuel is burned, the chemicals it produces are released into the atmosphere as easily visible gray particles. But these aren't the only particles released; invisible gases that are very harmful to life, such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and sulfur trioxide, are also released.
These gases, when they interact with rainwater, form nitric acid, sulfurous acid, and sulfuric acid, which, along with the precipitation, fall to the ground. For more information on how this phenomenon occurs, you can consult the article on how acid rain is produced.
How do you determine the acidity of a liquid?
To do this, we determine its pH , which indicates the concentration of hydrogen ions. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic and 14 the most alkaline. It can be measured very easily, as nowadays we have digital pH meters and pH strips available at pharmacies. Let's learn how to use them:
- Digital pH meter or pH meter: we will fill a glass with water and introduce the meter. Instantly it will indicate its acidity level in figures. The lower the value, the more acidic that liquid will be.
- Adhesive pH strips: these strips react quickly when they come into contact with water. Therefore, if we add a drop to them, we will see how they change color, turning greenish, yellow or orange. Depending on the color it acquires, it will mean that the liquid is acidic, neutral or alkaline.
Rain is always slightly acidic, meaning its pH is between 5 and 6, as it naturally mixes with oxides in the air. The problem arises when that air is heavily polluted: then the pH drops to 3. To get an idea of just how acidic rain can be, simply try to drink the juice from a freshly cut lemon. The pH of this citrus fruit is 2.3. It's so low that it's often used to acidify, or lower the pH of, alkaline water. Furthermore, it's important to consider the effects of acid rain on the environment and its repercussions on various ecosystems.
What are the consequences of acid rain?
In rivers, lakes, oceans
If we talk about the consequences, they are numerous and very negative for many living beings. As we pollute, the water in rivers, lakes, and oceans becomes more acidic, endangering animals as important to humans as shrimp, snails, and mussels . Deprived of calcium, these creatures develop weaker shells or burrows. But that's not all: eggs and fry are more likely to be deformed, and some may even fail to hatch. For more information on the repercussions of this phenomenon, see the article on how acid rain affects your car and its effects on aquatic life.
In the soil and on the plants
Another significant problem it causes is soil acidification . While many plants thrive in acidic soils, such as most native Asian species, others will struggle to adapt, like the carob and almond trees, two Mediterranean species that can only grow in calcareous soil. Acid rain prevents their roots from accessing essential nutrients, especially calcium. Furthermore, metals such as manganese, mercury, lead, and cadmium will seep into the soil, altering its composition . This underscores the importance of studying the environmental effects of acid rain.
Vegetation will be one of the most affected. And, therefore, we too, since we depend on it not only for breathing, but also for food. Understanding the effects of climate change on the environment is essential.
In the historical places and sculptures
Acid rain will significantly affect historical buildings and sculptures made of limestone that have survived into the 21st century. The pyramids of Egypt are a prime example. Why? The explanation is simple: once acidic water comes into contact with the stone, it reacts and transforms into gypsum, which dissolves easily.
Can anything be done to avoid it?
Of course. The solution lies in stopping pollution, but that's currently impossible considering there are 7 billion people on the planet. Therefore, it's more feasible to look for other energy sources; to opt for renewables , which are much cleaner than fossil fuels.
Other things that could be done are:
- Use less the car and more public transport.
- Save energy and use sustainable alternatives.
- Investing in electric cars and their infrastructure.
- Create environmental awareness campaigns and education about its effects.
- Develop projects that serve to reduce pollution, such as rain gardens.
As you can see, acid rain is a very serious problem that significantly affects not only plants or animals, but also the entire planet Earth.
