What is the Difference Between Acid Rain and Normal Rain?

The main difference between acid rain and normal rain lies in the pH value of the water. Normal, clean rain has a pH value of between 5.0 and 5.5, which is slightly acidic. On the other hand, acid rain typically has a pH value of 4.0 or lower.

Normal rain is formed when carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolves into water, forming weak carbonic acid. This process makes the rain slightly acidic. Acid rain, also known as acid deposition, is a more acidic form of precipitation that includes sulfuric or nitric acid. It is caused by sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) emissions from sources like power plants, automobiles, and industrial processes. These emissions react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids. The acidity of acid rain can be 10 times greater than that of normal rain.

Acid rain can cause several environmental and human health issues, such as:

• Damage to physical structures, like limestone buildings and cars.
• Health problems, including eye irritation and asthma, when it takes the form of inhalable fog.
• Negative impacts on forests, trees, and plants, making them less healthy and more vulnerable to cold temperatures, insects, and diseases.

To combat acid rain, it is essential to reduce the release of pollutants that cause it, such as burning fewer fossil fuels and setting air-quality standards.

Comparative Table: Acid Rain vs Normal Rain

The main difference between acid rain and normal rain lies in their pH levels and the substances they contain. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences:

Acid rain is a result of certain human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, which release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. These gases react with water, oxygen, and other substances in the atmosphere to create acid rain, which can have negative effects on plants, animals, and infrastructure. In contrast, normal rain is a natural part of the water cycle and does not have the same harmful effects due to its slightly acidic pH level.