What is the chemical formula for sulfur dioxide?

The chemical formula for sulfur dioxide is SO2. This formula indicates that each molecule of sulfur dioxide is composed of one sulfur atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. The "S" stands for sulfur, and the "O2" signifies that there are two oxygen atoms present. This compound is significant in environmental science as it is a common pollutant resulting from burning fossil fuels and is a precursor to acid rain. Understanding the basic chemical structure of compounds like sulfur dioxide is crucial for studying their effects on the environment and human health. The other options represent different compounds: carbon dioxide (CO2) consists of one carbon and two oxygen atoms, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) consists of one nitrogen and two oxygen atoms, and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) consists of two hydrogen, one sulfur, and four oxygen atoms.