Final answer:
Acid rain is primarily produced from the reactions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx) in the atmosphere, creating nitric and sulfuric acids that lower the pH of rainwater. These compounds are mostly emitted through the combustion of fossil fuels and interact with atmospheric water to form acid rain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acid rain is rainwater that has a pH of less than 5, due to the dissolution of a variety of nonmetal oxides in the water. The compounds that primarily contribute to the formation of acid rain are nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx). These acidic gases like NO, NO2, and SO2 are released into the environment predominantly during the combustion of fossil fuels. They dissolve in the rainwater, leading to the formation of nitric acid and sulfuric acid, which lowers the pH of the rainwater making it acidic. For instance, sulfur dioxide reacts with water to form sulfurous acid: SO₂(g) + H₂O(l) ⇒ H₂SO₃(aq).
NO₂ and other NOx gases interact with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to formulate acid rain. This acid precipitation is harmful to sensitive ecosystems such as lakes and forests. The correct answer to the question is option b: NOx and SOx are responsible for the reactions that produce acid rain.