Introducing KNOVA — A free reading app with curriculum-aligned passages on History & Science for Grades 3-8Learn More →

What causes Acid rain? — Reading Comprehension

No ratings yet

Premium Resource

Grades

Rate this resource

Send Feedback / Report an Issue

About This Reader

"This comprehensive reading passage for middle school students delves into the causes and effects of acid rain. Aligned with NGSS standard MS-PS1-4, it explains how human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. The passage details the chemical reactions that transform these pollutants into sulfuric and nitric acids, which then fall to the ground as precipitation. Students will learn about the detrimental impact of acid rain on forests, aquatic ecosystems, and man-made structures. The content is designed to be engaging for grades 6-8, using clear language and relatable examples to illustrate complex scientific concepts. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of human actions and environmental consequences, fostering a deeper understanding of real-world environmental issues."

CONTENT PREVIEW

Acid rain, more accurately known as acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation—rain, snow, fog, or hail—that is unusually acidic. The primary cause of acid rain is the release of specific chemical compounds into the atmosphere. While some natural sources like volcanoes and decaying vegetation can contribute, the main culprits are human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. These activities power our vehicles and factories, but they also release harmful gases into the air.

The two main gases responsible for acid rain are sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). When power plants burn coal and oil, they release large amounts of sulfur dioxide. Similarly, when vehicles burn gasoline, they release nitrogen oxides. These gases travel high into the atmosphere and react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. This process is a chemical reaction that transforms the gases into microscopic acid droplets, which then mix with precipitation and fall to the ground as acid rain.

The effects of acid rain are widespread and damaging. When it falls, it can harm forests and soils by leaching out essential nutrients and releasing toxic substances like aluminum, which can be harmful to plant roots. In aquatic ecosystems, acid rain lowers the pH levels of lakes and rivers, making the water too acidic for fish and other wildlife to survive. Acid rain also accelerates the decay of building materials and paints, causing damage to statues, buildings, and other outdoor structures. The Statue of Liberty, for example, has undergone extensive restoration to repair damage from acid rain over the years.

The issue of acid rain highlights the interconnectedness of our atmosphere and the environment. By understanding the chemical reactions and their sources, we can work toward solutions such as using cleaner energy and implementing regulations on emissions. These efforts are crucial for protecting our natural resources and the structures we build.

Fun Fact: Although the term "acid rain" is common, the acidity can also be deposited on surfaces as dry particles and gases, a process known as dry deposition.

What is the main human activity that contributes to acid rain?

Agricultural farmingBurning fossil fuelsUsing renewable energyForest conservation

Which two gases are primarily responsible for the formation of acid rain?

Carbon dioxide and methaneOxygen and hydrogenSulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxidesWater vapor and ozone

What is the process by which sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides become sulfuric and nitric acids?

PhotosynthesisEvaporationA chemical reaction in the atmosphereTranspiration

How does acid rain impact aquatic ecosystems?

It increases the pH of the water.It makes the water clearer.It lowers the pH of the water, harming wildlife.It has no effect on water.

Based on the passage, what would be the most effective way to reduce the amount of acid rain?

Using more gasoline in cars.Increasing the burning of coal.Switching to cleaner energy sources.Building more factories.

The passage states that acid rain can leach out essential nutrients from the soil. What is the most likely consequence of this?

The soil becomes more fertile.Plants and trees become healthier.Plant growth is negatively affected.The soil becomes more suitable for certain crops.

What is the central idea of the reading passage?

Acid rain is caused solely by natural sources like volcanoes.Acid rain is a significant environmental problem caused primarily by human activity.Acid rain is a problem that only affects aquatic life.The Statue of Liberty is the only structure damaged by acid rain.

The passage mentions that acid rain can be deposited as dry particles. This phenomenon is also known as:

Wet depositionChemical reactionDry depositionNeutralization