The correct answer is D. Sulphuric acid.
Acid rain is a rain or any other form of precipitation that is unusually acidic, meaning that it has a high level of hydrogen ions (low pH). It can have harmful effects on plants, aquatic animals, and infrastructure.
The main cause of acid rain is the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. These gases react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid, which then fall to the Earth as acid rain.
Acid rain can damage vegetation in a number of ways. It can leach essential minerals from the soil, making it difficult for plants to grow. It can also damage the leaves of plants, making them more susceptible to disease and pests. In severe cases, acid rain can kill entire forests.
In addition to damaging vegetation, acid rain can also harm aquatic animals. It can lower the pH of lakes and streams, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms to survive. It can also damage the eggs and larvae of fish, making it difficult for them to reproduce.
Acid rain can also damage infrastructure. It can corrode metals, such as steel and iron, making them weaker and more likely to fail. It can also damage concrete, making it more susceptible to cracking and crumbling.
Acid rain is a serious problem that can have a number of harmful effects on the environment. It is important to take steps to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, in order to protect our planet from the harmful effects of acid rain.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: Nitric acid is a strong acid that can damage vegetation. However, it is not the main cause of acid rain.
- Option B: Ozone is a gas that is formed when oxygen molecules are exposed to ultraviolet radiation. It can damage vegetation, but it is not the main cause of acid rain.
- Option C: Carbon monoxide is a gas that is produced when fossil fuels are burned. It is a poisonous gas that can cause death if inhaled in high concentrations. However, it is not the main cause of acid rain.
- Option D: Sulphuric acid is a strong acid that is formed when sulfur dioxide is released into the atmosphere. It is the main cause of acid rain.