Question

Sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides form from the burning of fossil fuels for energy. These gases combine with water in the atmosphere and can form acid precipitation. Organisms living in affected aquatic environments often suffer decreased cell function due to

A) decreased pH levels.
B) increased pH levels.
C) decreased temperatures.
D) increased temperatures.

Answer 1

The answer is A. Decreased pH levels. A substance having a pH value less than seven is considered to be acidic. Increases in the concentration of these gases from the use of fossil fuels leads to more acid precipitation, lowering the pH of aquatic environments. Plant life and soil can also be affected by acid rain. Buildings and other infrastructure can be damaged.