What neutralizes acid rain?
baking soda ?
I have no idea what you are supposed to say.
Look at this hint (not far off my guess :)
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1354300345
A shotgun!
To determine what neutralizes acid rain, we need to understand what acid rain is and what components can counteract its acidic properties.
Acid rain is rainwater that has become acidic due to containing pollutants, primarily sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are released into the atmosphere from human activities such as burning fossil fuels and industrial processes. These pollutants react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the air to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid, leading to the acidification of rainwater.
To neutralize acid rain, substances that have basic or alkaline properties are required. Alkaline substances have a pH value greater than 7, which means they can counteract the acidity by accepting hydrogen ions (H+) and reducing the concentration of acidic components.
Common substances that can neutralize acid rain include:
1. Limestone: Crushed limestone or calcium carbonate (CaCO3) can be added to bodies of water to raise their pH levels and neutralize the acids. The calcium carbonate reacts with the acids, forming less harmful products like water, carbon dioxide, and calcium sulfate.
2. Liming: By applying lime (calcium oxide) or slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) to soils and bodies of water, the acidic pH can be partially or fully neutralized.
3. Baking Soda: Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), commonly known as baking soda, can act as a short-term solution for neutralizing small amounts of acid rain. However, it is not practical for large-scale application.
4. Magnesium oxide: Similar to limestone, magnesium oxide (MgO) is also a basic substance capable of neutralizing acid rain by reacting with acidic components.
It's important to note that neutralizing acid rain is a complex issue and requires long-term efforts to reduce the emissions of pollutants that cause acid rain to occur in the first place. Actions such as reducing air pollution, implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions, and promoting sustainable energy sources can help mitigate the effects of acid rain.