Acid deposition (commonly known as acid rain) is a major environmental problem resulting from the reaction of industrial emissions with atmospheric water. Which two chemical precursors are primarily responsible for forming the sulfuric and nitric acids that cause this phenomenon?

💡 Explanation:

Acid rain is primarily caused by emissions of Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), usually from the burning of sulfur-containing fossil fuels (like coal), and Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ), typically from vehicle exhausts and industrial combustion. These pollutants react with water and oxygen in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids.