What is the main environmental concern associated with sulfur dioxide emissions?
Answer Details
The main environmental concern associated with sulfur dioxide emissions is the formation of acid rain.
When sulfur dioxide (SO2) is released into the atmosphere, it reacts with oxygen and water vapor to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4). This acid then falls back to the Earth's surface as acid rain.
Acid rain can have damaging effects on the environment, including lakes, forests, and buildings. It can make water bodies more acidic, which harms aquatic plants and animals. It can also damage trees and vegetation, making it difficult for them to grow and survive. In addition, acid rain can corrode buildings, statues, and other structures made of stone or metal.
So, the main environmental concern associated with sulfur dioxide emissions is the formation of acid rain, which can have destructive impacts on ecosystems and man-made structures.