Question

The substance having the largest concentration in acid rain?
1. H₂CO3
2. HN0₃
3. HCI
4. H₂SO₄
5. None of the above/More than one of the above

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : H₂SO₄

The correct answer is H₂SO₄

Concept

• Acid rain is the rain having a pH below 5.6.

Explanation

• Sulphuric acid(H₂SO₄) is present in a larger concentration in acid rain.
• Acid rain is formed due to the presence of oxides of sulphur and nitrogen in the atmosphere.
• On reaction with water, they will get converted into H₂SO₄ and HNO₃.

                 2SO₂(g) + O₂(g) + 2H₂O(l) →  2H₂SO₄(aq)

                 4NO₂(g) + O₂(g) + 2H₂O(l) →  4HNO₃(aq)

• HCl (hydrochloric acid) and H₂CO₃(carbonic acid) is also present acid rain.

• Normal rainwater is also slightly acidic with a pH value of 5.6.
• It is due to the presence of carbonic acid formed by the reaction of carbon dioxide with water.

                                          CO₂(g) + H₂O(l)  ⇔ H₂CO₃(aq)

• Acid rain is a result of human activities like burning fossil fuels, emissions from vehicles, industrial emissions.
• Acid rain can cause severe harm to plant and animal life.