Final answer:
Sulfuric acid and nitric acid are the two major compounds responsible for acidic precipitation, originating from the emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two major compounds in the atmosphere that are responsible for acidic precipitation are sulfuric acid and nitric acid. These acids result from the chemical reactions that occur when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted into the atmosphere, primarily from the combustion of fossil fuels. These gases react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form the acidic compounds that lead to acid rain, which can have harmful effects on the environment, including damage to soil, plants, and aquatic ecosystems.