Final answer:
The land around an once active coal mine remains barren because the ground where the coal was mined is acidic, making it difficult for plants to grow there.
Step-by-step explanation:
The land around an once active coal mine remains barren because the ground where the coal was mined is acidic, making it difficult for plants to grow there.
When coal is mined, it exposes the underlying rocks that contain sulfur compounds. When these rocks are exposed to air and water, they undergo chemical reactions that release sulfuric acid. This acidic environment makes it challenging for most plants to survive.
Additionally, the burning of coal releases sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which can contribute to the formation of acid rain. Acid rain can further damage the soil and hinder plant growth in the surrounding area.