Acid Deposition

An acid adds hydrogen ions to a solution

a base accepts hydrogen ions from a solution.

Acid deposition:

wet deposition (rain, snow, or fog) or dry deposition (particulate matter or gas) with a pH of less than 5.

Environmental indicators of acid deposition include the following:

• decreased pH levels in lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water

• increased concentrations of metals, such as aluminum

• increased levels of sulfates and nitrates

• changes in the development or population size of "indicator organisms," usually those at the bottom of a food chain

Episodic acidification occurs over a short period of time and can have significant effects on the community, including loss of biodiversity

Chronic acidification occurs over the long term and depletes an ecosystem of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

causes higher alimuim levels which is toxic and nitrogen can lower pH levels