Final answer:
Acid rain destroys forests by depleting soil nutrients, making trees more vulnerable to environmental stressors, and releasing aluminum from the soil, which is toxic to plants.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acid rain has a devastating effect on forests. It depletes nutrients in the soil, which are essential for the growth and health of trees. In addition, acid rain makes trees more susceptible to drought and insect infestation. When sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases mix with rainwater, they form acids that can damage the leaves and bark of trees, hindering their ability to photosynthesize and grow properly. Furthermore, acid rain can release aluminum from the soil, which is toxic to many plant species, causing slower growth, injury, or even death of forests.
Acid rain also contributes to the acidification of lakes and streams that can harm aquatic life, and it accelerates the decay of building materials and cultural statues. The combined effects of acid rain and other environmental stressors such as air pollutants, drought, and cold weather significantly weaken forest ecosystems.