What causes acid precipitation?

Acid precipitation, commonly known as acid rain, primarily results from the combustion of fossil fuels. When fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are burned, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere. These gases can react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere, forming sulfuric acid and nitric acid. When these acids fall to the ground with precipitation, they lower the pH of rainwater, leading to adverse environmental effects such as damage to ecosystems, buildings, and human health.

While excessive use of fertilizers and natural volcanic eruptions can contribute to environmental changes and localized acidification, they do not account for the widespread occurrence of acid precipitation that primarily stems from human activities involving fossil fuel combustion. Fertilizers can lead to nutrient runoff and contribute to other forms of pollution, but they are not a direct cause of acid rain. Volcanic eruptions do release sulfur dioxide, but their frequency and scale in comparison to human activities are much smaller, making them less significant in the context of acid precipitation.