Acid Deposition and Its Effects

These flashcards cover key concepts related to acid deposition, its sources, effects on ecosystems, management strategies, and historical context.

What is acid deposition?

Acid deposition refers to any form of precipitation containing high levels of nitric and sulfuric acids, which can occur as rain, snow, fog, or dry material.

What is the pH range of acid rain compared to normal rain?

Normal rain has a pH of 5.6, while acid rain typically has a pH between 4.2 and 4.4.

What are the primary human activities that contribute to acid deposition?

The biggest sources of acid deposition are coal-burning power plants, factories, and automobiles, which release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NO) into the atmosphere.

How do winds influence acid deposition?

Winds can spread acidic compounds through the atmosphere over hundreds of miles, affecting regions far from the original source.

What is the impact of acid rain on aquatic ecosystems?

Acid rain increases the acidity of water bodies, leading to higher aluminum absorption from the soil, which is toxic to aquatic life such as crayfish, clams, and fish.

What are some pollution management strategies for acid deposition?

Strategies include replacing fossil fuels with alternatives, reducing electricity demand, using low-sulfur fuels, and implementing catalytic converters.

How do lichens serve as biological indicators of air quality?

In highly polluted air, lichens may be absent or replaced by green algae, while in clean air, diverse lichen species become abundant.

What is dry deposition and how does it differ from wet deposition?

Dry deposition occurs close to the source and consists of gases and particles like SO2, while wet deposition occurs at slightly larger distances and includes acids formed in precipitation.

What are some challenges in reducing acid deposition?

Challenges include the reliance on fossil fuels, the need for international agreements, and the economic costs associated with implementing cleaner technologies.

What historical events contributed to the awareness and management of acid deposition?

Key events include the establishment of the 1979 Convention on Long Range Transboundary Air Pollution and various protocols aimed at reducing sulfur emissions.