Final answer:
Lakes lying in granite basins are more susceptible to acidification by acid rain compared to lakes in limestone basins due to the difference in buffering capacity. Limestone has a greater ability to neutralize acidic compounds in rain, while granite has a lower buffering capacity. This difference in buffering capacity can have negative consequences for the health of lakes and their ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acid rain is a significant environmental issue that can lead to the acidification of lakes. Lakes lying in granite basins, such as those in the northeastern U.S., tend to become acidified by acid rain more readily than lakes lying in limestone basins, such as those found in the midwestern U.S. This is because limestone has a greater buffering capacity, which means it can more effectively neutralize acidic compounds in the rain.
Granite, on the other hand, has a lower buffering capacity, making lakes in granite basins more vulnerable to acidification. When acid rain falls on these lakes, the acidic compounds are not thoroughly neutralized, leading to a decrease in pH. This can have negative impacts on aquatic life, as well as the overall health of the lake ecosystem.
For example, in areas where buffering capacity is low, acid rain can release aluminum from soils into lakes and streams. Aluminum is highly toxic to many species of aquatic organisms, leading to slower growth, injury, or death of these organisms.