Acid rain is a dilute solution of acids that dissolve the calcium carbonate in limestone statues. Concentrated acids can dissolve a large piece of limestone in a few days. Statue breakdown due to acid rain can take decades, but statues with intricate carvings break down more quickly. Explain these observations in terms of reaction rates.
The rate of reaction between the acid in rainwater and the calcium carbonate in limestone statues is dependent on several factors. One of the main factors is the concentration of the acid. Concentrated acids have a higher concentration of acid molecules, leading to more frequent collisions with the calcium carbonate molecules and therefore a faster rate of reaction.
Additionally, the surface area of the limestone statue also plays a role in the rate of reaction. Statues with intricate carvings have a larger surface area exposed to the acid rain, allowing for more acid molecules to come in contact with the calcium carbonate and react. This increased surface area leads to a faster breakdown of the limestone statue compared to a solid, uncarved statue.
The timescale over which statue breakdown due to acid rain occurs is also influenced by the concentration of the acid and the surface area of the statue. In the case of a few days for concentrated acids dissolving a large piece of limestone, the high concentration of acid molecules and the large surface area of the limestone both contribute to a rapid breakdown. On the other hand, the slower breakdown over decades for dilute acid rain is due to the lower concentration of acid molecules and potentially a smaller surface area of the statue exposed to the acid rain.