Abstract This paper discusses the definition and causes of acid rain, as well as its harmful effects on aquatic systems, forests, man-made structures and human health. It also discusses the global implications of acid rain as a migratory form of air pollution and how this presents problems in the regulatory arena, especially from an international standpoint--for example, when acid rain generated by factories in the southern U.S. states is blown by wind patterns across the Mexican border, or vice versa.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is Acid Precipitation?
Definition
Common Pollutants and Reactions Involved
Sources of Acid Precipitation Pollutants The Harmful Effects of Acid Precipitation
Effects on Aquatic Systems
Effects on Forests and Other Terrestrial Ecosystems
Effects on Man-Made Structures and Materials
Effects on Human Health
Global Implications of the Acid Precipitation Problem
Air Pollution Migration
The International Challenge
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Air pollution is a well-recognized environmental problem throughout the world. Studies have shown, time and time again, that the environmental and health-based impacts of air pollution are both detrimental and undeniable. One of the most important forms of air pollution for our society as a whole to recognize and deal with in an expedient manner is acid precipitation. Because of the very nature of this type of air pollution, the direct and indirect effects of acid precipitation are both far-reaching and difficult to get under control. Understanding more about the causes, effects, and implications of acid precipitation and its impacts on our daily lives is the first step that we all need to take in adopting a more proactive approach to solving this problem."
Abstract This paper explains the definition of acid rain which is created mainly by man made pollutants invading the air and its disastrous effect on the environment. The writer of this paper details the effects of acid rain on animals, marine life, lakes, streams and forests while stressing the importance of controlling the spread of this environmentally hazardous phenomenon while examining the different methods currently being used to reduce harmful emissions and pollutants. Includes graphs.
From the Paper "The Ph of rain is dropping because we add tremendous amounts of material to the air. Some of this is in the form of particles and is pulled back to the earth by gravity, but water-soluble gases such as sulfur dioxide mix with the moisture in the atmosphere and return to the Earth as rain or snow. This return to Earth is called "deposition." (Gordon, 2002) The dust particles can leech into the soil, changing the nutrients available in our forests. One source for these extra elements in the air and precipitation is fossil fuels, fuels such as oil and coal. These fuels release significant amounts of both sulfur dioxide and nitrogen, which become part of our rain and snow."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the effects of acid rain and global warming. The author describes the components of Earth's atmosphere and describes how it has been dramatically changed by acid rain and global warming. These changes and other indirect consequences such as thunderstorms and tsunamis are elaborated upon. The author also discusses possible ways of individuals working together on a global scale to minimize the increased effects of global warming.
From the Paper "The meteorology of the earth is made up of a comprehensive system. Within the last century, the delicate balance of this system has been gravely and seriously affected by environmental pollution. Air pollution in the form of acid rain and global warming has dramatically changed the earth's natural atmosphere and has been and will continue to negatively hurt the environment as well as the people in it."
Abstract This paper explores how acid rain is produced, what its impact is on the environment, what has been done by government agencies to help the problem, how effective these measures have been, what individuals can do to help reduce this problem, what are the current technologies for reducing emissions and how these technologies can be used to reduce acid rain in the future. It demonstrates that current attempts to reduce emissions from power plants will not have a significant effect on acid rain reduction; and will support the idea that there is not a single solution to the problem of acid rain, but rather a combination of technologies and methods will have to be utilized to have a noticeable effect of the reduction of and repair of environmental destruction caused by acid rain.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
How Acid Rain is Formed
Effect of Acid Rain on the Environment
How Large is This Problem?
What Has Already Been Done to Reduce Emissions?
Have These Measures Been Effective?
What is the Future of the Acid Rain Issue?
How Can an Individual Help?
Current Trends in Alternative Power as a Solution to the Problem
Summary
Works Cited
From the paper:
"Our modern world has many conveniences. We enjoy hot water, lights, computers, cars, and many other conveniences, which are now an integral part of our society. Many of us cannot imagine life without them. We seldom think about the costs every time we turn on a light. We do not think about the where the electricity is produced and what the effects on the environment might be. We simply turn on the light. As with all good things, there is a cost. One cost of our modern conveniences is acid rain caused by the burning of fossil fuels. The effects of acid rain came into the forefront during the early seventies as its effects began to be noticed on a global level. The impact of the effects of acid rain is considered to be of great concern to some and of little concern to others. No matter which side you are on, we all must agree that energy consumption will continue to increase globally and we must be weary of the effects of energy production and always stay focused on future generations."
Abstract In this paper the author describes a science project in which she attempted to see if antacids had an affect on acid, in particular, acid in soil. In the research, the author hypothesizes, before conducting her experiment, that the antacid will decrease the acidity of the soil. After conducting her experiment, the author concludes that the data collected supports her hypothesis.
From the Paper "The immediate purpose for this experiment was to determine the relationship between antacids and acidity in soil. As discussed in the discussion, I believe that the antacids would have an affect on the acidity mainly because antacids are neutralizers. The data that I collected did support my hypothesis. Although the data may have inadequacies because of the sources of error, it shows that the acidity of the soil did decrease in response to adding the antacids into the soil. The reason why I believe that the data is inaccurate in some parts is because after adding 35 g of antacids, the results turned back towards the acidic end of the pH scale. It wasn't until adding the 50 g of antacid that the results skyrocketed toward the base end of the scale."
Abstract In the form of a speech, this paper details the problems of smog, acid rain, and depletion of the ozone layer. The paper details major technology and regulations that have greatly reduced some of the pollution including, catalytic converters, alternative fuels, electrostatic precipitation, bag filtration, the Clean Air Act, fluidized bed combustion, and HCFCs. Discusses water problems, including lead and methyl mercury, and legislation like the Clean Water Act.
From the Paper "Dear Congresswomen and Congressmen, Our environment is a pressing issue in our society today. Due to societies' demand on governmental organizations to improve the condition of our environment, I am submitting to you today a 25-year program that will be effective in reducing pollution in the air and water. I urge you to look into the issues presented and make an informed decision that will help to improve the quality of our environment."
Abstract This paper provides a definition of "acid rain" and how it is formed. It looks at the dangers of acid rain and the damage it is doing to the environment. It briefly examines options and programs that can be performed to reduce acid rain.
From the Paper "The term "acid rain" is a little misleading. Rain is naturally acidic, from both carbon dioxide in the air and absorption of chlorine from the ocean (Gordon, 2002). All compounds can be measured for acidity or alkalinity on a Ph scale ranging from 0 ? 14, with anything below 7 showing at least slight acidity. Rain is judged "acid" when its Ph falls below 5. (Gordon, 2002) Environmental scientists are concerned because in some parts of our country, the level of acidity in rain and snow has increased beyond its normal levels. This has had a serious impact in several areas, including our forests in the northeast and many of our most valued monuments."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the topic of acid rain. Specifically, it defines acid rain and discusses its effect on the environment.
From the Paper "The term "acid rain" is really a bit of a misnomer, because acid "rain" can be either wet or dry, and is a global term that covers almost any type of acid that falls from the atmosphere onto the Earth (EPA). Acid rain is often called "acid deposition" by scientists, but the common term most of the public understands is acid rain. Acid rain is a mixture of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which result from burning fossil fuels like coal and oil. These chemicals react as they are released into the atmosphere, and join to create a mild solution of acidic compounds that becomes acid rain when it falls to the ground mixed with precipitation, such as rain, fog, and snow, or falls to the ground on its own if there is enough of it in the air. Acid rain is common all over the world, and as our reliance on fossil fuels grows, so does the potential for increasing acid rain."
Abstract This well-researched and detailed paper explores the effects of acidic precipitation (acid rain) which has been a major factor in fish kills throughout countries in the northern hemisphere. The writer of this paper cites numerous studies which have linked aluminum toxicity along with acid rain as the main cause of fish extinction. This paper stresses the urgency in developing a successful management tool in determining the viability of fish populations in various natural settings. This paper also contains detailed information and results of various case studies as well as two graphs that support the author's claims in this report.
From the Paper "The fish used in this experiment were obtained from a trout farm which ensures the relative similarity of the fishes used in the experiment. They were acclimated to artificial soft water for 2 weeks before they were used in the experiment. They were then transferred to flux chambers for the experiment and given 24 to 48 hours to recover from the handling stress before they were exposed for 24 hours to low-pH water (pH 4.4, 4.8, or 5.2) A control group (N=36) for each of these pHs was left in these conditions for 10 days. The experimental group after this 24 hour exposure to low pH levels were exposed to concentrations of Al of 111, 333, or 1000 ug/L at the same pH (N=72)."
Abstract This paper discusses the chemistry of pollution, noting the elements involved in most air pollution and water pollution, the development of acid rain, the creation of low-level ozone, and pollutants in the air. This paper further discusses how they interact and damage human health, stating that pollution is the result of chemical reactions from chemicals released into the environment in solid, liquid, or gaseous form to interact with naturally occurring elements.
From the Paper "Pollution is the result of chemical reactions from chemicals released into the environment in solid, liquid, or gaseous form to interact with naturally occurring elements in the environment in order to alter the make-up of water, air, and soil. Many kinds of pollution are prevalent today as industrial processes create waste, emissions, and discharges that damage the environment and threaten health. The major components of clean air are oxygen and nitrogen, but clean air contains many other substances, among them such rare gases as argon, neon, and helium. Clean air also contains ozone, a form of oxygen; carbon dioxide; and various nitrogen and sulfur compounds. Clean air also contains water vapor in different degrees and many suspended solid particles and liquid substances, the latter called aerosols and consisting of dust particles and condensation nuclei, which include chloride salts, sulfuric and nitrous acids, phosphorous compounds, and many other chemical substances."
Abstract This paper discusses several forms of indoor and outdoor pollution and their impact on the environment and human health. It explores measures that can be taken to curb pollution. It also expands on several large scale pollution disasters.
From the Paper "There are many kinds of indoor and outdoor pollution including photochemical, smog, acid rain and second hand smoke. Air pollution threatens the health of our flora and fauna as well as human health. The impact of these kinds ..."
Tags: Clean Air Act, Kyoto Protocol, ozone layer, air pollution, acid rain, photochemical smog, emissions
Abstract This paper briefly explains that the problem of air pollution is in our control and that we should take more serious measures to fight this trend of a growing ozone hole and decreased air quality. The writer states that health hazards are increasing and it is our responsibility to put an end to this phenomenon. A number of suggestions include changing the fuels and type of transport we use.
From the Paper "The ring of haze surrounding modern cities looms ominously and the hole in the ozone layer grows, but people rarely understand that air pollution is within our control. The causes of air pollution are many, and save for natural contributions to temporarily poor air quality, the bulk of air pollution problems are results of human technological advances. Since the Industrial Revolution, massive amounts of fossil fuels like coal and oil have been and continue to be consumed. The benefits of industry may indeed outweigh the detriments, but it is finally time for technology to solve its own problems. Until the past few decades, the spoils of industrialization were taken for granted. We can forgive our forebears for their ignorance in developing technologies with unforeseen consequences. Who could have known how human life would benefit by burning coal for electricity or oil for automobiles? "
Abstract This paper provides a detailed overview of acids and bases in the pH scale, including the history, characteristics, types, and Ka values with chemistry and biology applications. The paper covers seven main parts: the history starting with the Romans; the definition of both an acid and a base; the characteristics of acids and bases; types of acids and bases; how to determine an acid number; the relationship between acids and bases to the pH scale; and aqueous and self-ionization solutions. I. Introduction A. What do acids and alkalines have in common? 1.To test whether temperature affected the acidity of different liquids. 2. The complexity and fascination of such project. 3. If different types of liquids were utilized, then temperature would certainly make a difference, however minimal. II. History A. The history of acids have dated back centuries. 1. The Romans first coined the term acidus. 2. Lavoisier's work with acids. 3. Predecessors, such as Arrhenius. III. Definition of acid A. The definition of acids have been controversial at times. 1. The Arrhenius definition 2. The Bronsted definition 3. The Lewis definition IV. Characterizing acids in general B. The nature of acids 1. Sourness 2. Dissolving in water V. Types of Acids A. Strong acids 1. Fundamental characteristics. 2. Dangerous 3. Larger Ka values B. Weak acids 1. Fundamental characteristics 2. Smaller Ka values 3. Equilibrium watch VI. Characterizing Bases. A. Bases are the opposite of acids 1. The Arrhenius definition 2. Characteristics B. Strong and weak bases VII. Acidity A. Acid number has a lot of relation to everything else 1. Determining acid number 2. Acid numbers importance B. pH is the epitome of research 1. Aqueous solution 2. Self- ionization 3. Definitions
From the Paper "What do acids and alkaline truly have in common? The history of the understanding of an acid is relatively old. Dating back to the Roman Empire days, came the word that we derived acid from, acidus, meaning sour. Around the 1800s, French chemists erroneously believed that all acids contained oxygen, including the famed Antoine Lavoisier. Svante Arrhenius, a Swedish scientist in the mid 1800s and a Nobel laureate, did a few experimentations with acids, and came up with concocting a definitive, chemically sound definition of an acid. Later on, in the 20th century, the partners Bronsted and Lowry initiated theories about acids using and published the acid-based concept. The most pragmatic research of acids and bases came from the American chemist Gilbert Lewis. Ever since then, the idea of acids and base has been widely recognized, although the definitions of such terms have been rather controversial."
Abstract This paper explains that acid rain as an environmental concern is not mentioned as much any more though its danger remains. The paper points out that acid rain is a global problem because wind directions are global. The paper also describes the many adverse effects of acid rain such as its impact on fish larvae. The paper then discusses the parts of the 1990 Clean Air Act, which are devoted to the prevention of acid rain. The paper includes many formulas detailing the creation and effects of acid rain.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Acid Rain
Chemistry of Acid Rain
Adverse Effects of Acid Rain
Efforts to Curb the Effects of Acid Rain
From the Paper "This same idea can be used to explain atmospheric pollution. A few decades ago, the beautiful, Indian monument, the Taj Mahal, started developing cracks in it and the brilliant marble colors started taking on a dull hue. It was discovered that a nearby factory was releasing sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. The resulting acid rain had deposited on the surface of the marble (CaCO3) converting it into the dull gypsum (CaSO4.1/2 H2O). Calcium sulfate also has twice the molar volume of calcium carbonate. This expansion had resulted in added stress resulting in cracks."
Tags: ecosystem, global winds, carbonic acid, photosynthesis guidelines
A discussion on the effect of acid rain on forests and the way in which the deposition of acid rain and particles make plants and trees more susceptible to disease.
Abstract The following paper examines why environmental scientists are concerned that the level of acidity in rain and snow has increased beyond its normal levels in the United States. The writer discusses the ways in which this has had a serious impact in several areas, including forests in the northeast and many of the country's most valued monuments.
From the Paper "Munton (1998) expresses the same concerns. He notes that emissions have already been reduced by 50%. That is an impressive improvement, but perhaps still more than delicate ecosystems can stand. He suggests that we may need even more restrictive interventions in place, and points out that modern society's effects on the atmosphere goes beyond acid rain, which may also affect human health, but to breathable particulates, effects on the ozone layer, and regional haze making particular areas periodically more vulnerable to the effects of airborne pollutants.
"In conclusion, it may be too soon to be satisfied with our efforts so far. Given the tremendous amount of pollution released into the air, a 50% reduction may be a result that looks good on paper but that is still significantly damaging to our environment."
