Environmental problems

Acid rain is caused by emissions of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Although natural sources of sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides do exist, more than 90% of the sulphur and 95% of the nitrogen emissions occurring in eastern North America come from human origin. These primary air pollutants come from the use of coal in the production of electricity, from base metal smelting, and from fuel combustion in vehicles. Once released into the atmosphere, they can be converted chemically into such secondary pollutants as nitric acid and sulfuric acid, both of which dissolve easily in water. The resulting acidic water droplets can be carried long distances by very strong winds, returning to Earth as acid rain, snow, or fog. Who is affected? Basically every one who comes in contact with acid rain is affected. Among one of the serious side effects of acid pollution on humans is respiratory problems. The SO2 and NO2 emissions give rise to respitory problems such as asthma, dry coughs, headache...