Question

Question #4a869

Answer 1

`H_2O` (`l`) + `CO_2` (`g`) = `H_2CO_3` (`aq`)
`H_2O` (`l`) + `H_2CO_3` (`aq`) = `HCO_3^-` (`aq`) + `H_3O^+` (`aq`)

Explanation:

Natural rainwater is already slightly acidic (pH 5.6) due to the presence of `CO_2` in our system (the air that we, humans and animals alike, breathe out and also, a product of organic decomposition).

But the slightly acidic condition is further aggravated by the presence of industrial pollutants like sulfur dioxide (`SO_2`) and nitrogen oxides (`NO_x`), to say the least.

So not only does the above chemical formula to describe acid rain, but you can also use these formulas:

`H_2O` (`l`) + `SO_3` (`g`) = `H_2SO_4` (`aq`)

`H_2O` (`l`) + `2NO_2` (`g`) = `HNO_3` (`aq`) + `HNO_2` (`g`)

Combination of all these acids in our atmosphere can bring about acid rain.