Acid rain is one of those environmental problems that might sound distant, but it affects forests, lakes, wildlife, buildings, and even human health around the world in very real ways. It occurs when gases released mainly by burning fossil fuels rise into the atmosphere and mix with water, oxygen, and other chemicals.
This process creates acids that fall back to Earth as rain, snow, or even dry particles. Over time, acid rain can harm ecosystems, corrode buildings, and add costly burdens to communities. Consequently, scientists, policymakers, and everyday people have worked to understand its causes, measure its effects, and develop strategies to curb it.
So, what exactly is acid rain? How does it impact the world around us? And what can we do about it? Click through this gallery to find out.