This type of pollution is a matter of great debate currently due to the potential of its causing environmental damages all across the world. For the last decade or so, acid rain has caused destruction to hundreds of lakes and streams in many parts of the world. Acid rain forms due to nitrous and sulphuric oxides combining with the moisture contained in the atmosphere, resulting in the formation of sulfuric and nitric acids. These acids can be dispersed far away from their places of origin.

Acid rain affects human health adversely. It has the ability of harming us via the atmosphere as well as the soil where the food we eat is grown. Acid rain causes the disassociation of toxic metals and elements. Toxic metals are dangerous by themselves but harmless as long as they exist in combination with other elements. But acid rain brings about the release of these toxic metals and they become free to infiltrate drinking water, and the animals or crops that humans use as sources of food. This contaminated food can damage the nerves in children, result in severe brain damage, or even cause sudden death. Scientists suspect that aluminum, one of the toxic metals affected by acid rain, is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Another adverse health effect of acid rain on humans is the respiratory problems it causes. The emissions of nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide cause respiratory problems like throat, nose and eye irritation, headaches, asthma, and dry coughs.

Illnesses such as lung cancer, asthma, cardiovascular issues and premature death have all been attributed to the inhalation of pollutants present in the atmosphere. Researchers suggest that even short-term exposure at elevated concentrations could significantly contribute to heart disease. Acid rain also damages man-made structures and materials. For example, acid rain dissolves sandstone, limestone, and marble. It also corrodes ceramic, textiles, paints, and metals. Rubber and leather deteriorate if exposed to acid rain. Stone monuments and carvings begin losing their features when exposed to acid rain.

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