Authors: Grace Yu; Sources: EPA, National Geographic, Unsplash

Acid Rain

INTRODUCTION

The components of rainwater are not often thought about. However, acidic rain can be very harmful to the environment in many different ways, due to a low pH level.

“Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere in wet or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic.” — US EPA

 

ACTIVITY

Lemon Juice Acidity Experiment

Materials: Lemon juice, two plastic cups, pH strips // Duration: 3-5 minutes

  • Fill up plastic cups with water

  • Measure pH levels in both cups (should be the same)

  • Add lemon juice to one cup and stir

  • Measure pH levels in both cups again (cup with lemon juice should have lower pH)

LESSON

The acidity of precipitation can be affected by acidic components that are polluted into the environment (represented by the lemon juice). Acid rain can be extremely harmful to the world’s ecosystems and overall health.

 
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