How do our soils show the effects of acid rain?
Acid rain is a type of rain that has higher-than-normal levels of nitric and sulfuric acids, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Other chemicals within acid rain can also be extremely damaging to soil.Acid RainAcid rain results from the toxins, metals and chemicals that contribute to air pollution and anthropogenic global warming. The effects of acid rain are far reaching and contribute to the deaths of many plants.Immediate EffectsAlthough acid rain has few immediate effects on the soil and plants it touches, the cumulative action of acid rain can kill forests. Each time acid rain falls, more toxins are deposited into the soil.ContentsMetals that appear in acid rain include lead, zinc, copper and aluminum, according to ThinkQuest. These metals end up in rain through the production and use of fossil fuels and other pollutants. When acid rain falls, these metals are deposited in the soil.EffectsAs metals and acids build up in the soil, they destroy the soil’s natural nutri