Transboundary Pollution: Acid Rain IB HL

Causes Acid rain is the increased acidity of rainfall and dry deposition as a result of human activity. Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide is produced when fossil fuels are burned. They are released into the atmosphere, where they can be absorbed by moisture and become weak sulphuric and nitric acids. Coal-fired power stations are the main producers of sulphur dioxide as well as vehicles.

Dry And Wet Deposition Dry Deposition: Occurs close to the source of emission. Wet Deposition: Occurs when acids are dissolved in precipitation as it can also fall great distances away from the source. It is also called “trans-frontier” pollution as it can cross international boundaries.

Dry And Wet Deposition

Effects Buildings weathered. Absorption of “oxides” in rivers and lakes. Soil acidity increases affecting plant growth. Forest growth is affected. Aluminium damages fish gills. Senile dementia has risen (unproven).

Solutions Adding powdered limestone to lakes to increase their PH values. Reducing fossil fuel combustion. Using less sulphur-rich fossil fuels. Alternative energy. Removing pollutants before they reach the atmosphere.

Problems Rainfall is naturally acidic. No single type of industry is the “sole” emitter of sulphur dioxide and/or nitrogen dioxide. More cars have catalytic converters. Different types of coal have different variations of sulphur content.

Activities Using Geography Course Companion P359-362, answer the following… What is Acid Rain? What are the main gases involved in acid deposition? What is the difference between wet and dry position? What are the natural causes of acid deposition? What are the main impacts of acidification? How can acidification be managed?