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Acid rain is a broad term to describe the several ways that acids fall out of the atmosphere to the Earth via rain, snowfall, particulates, and fogs. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) and to a lesser extent nitrogen oxides (NOx) are the primary pollutants that cause acid rain. Acid rain occurs when these gases react in the atmosphere with waterand oxygen to form various acidic compounds. About 80 percent of the SO2 emitted in the United States comes from electricity generating power plants.
Acid rain causes acidification of lakes and streams threatening sensitive aquatic life and contributes to damage of trees at high elevations and many sensitive forest soils. In addition, acid rain accelerates the decay of building materials and paints, including irreplaceable historical buildings, statues, and sculptures.
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