The two major acid rain pollutants are sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
1. **Sulfur Dioxide (SO2):**
- Sulfur dioxide is produced mainly from the burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil in power plants and industrial facilities.
- When sulfur dioxide is released into the atmosphere, it reacts with oxygen and water vapor to form sulfuric acid, which contributes to acid rain.
- The main sources of sulfur dioxide emissions include power plants, industrial boilers, and vehicles that run on diesel fuel.
2. **Nitrogen Oxides (NOx):**
- Nitrogen oxides are produced from the combustion of fossil fuels at high temperatures, such as in vehicles and power plants.
- These gases can react with other compounds in the atmosphere to form nitric acid, which is another component of acid rain.
- Nitrogen oxides are also a major contributor to smog and air pollution.
By reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides through cleaner technologies and regulations, the impact of acid rain can be minimized, helping to protect the environment and human health.
