Acid Rain A Listening and Reading Activity

 

 

Watch the Video on Acid Rain and Study the following.

 Acid Rain:

1. Which statement provides the strongest evidence that human activities are primarily responsible for acid rain? 

a) Rainfall in remote areas with minimal human activity occasionally shows acidic readings. 

b) Studies show a correlation between increased coal-fired power plants and higher acid rain levels in nearby regions. 

c) Acid rain has been documented since the pre-industrial era, indicating natural sources must play a significant role. 

d) Certain plant species have adapted to thrive in acidic environments, suggesting acid rain isn't inherently harmful.

Answer: b)

2. A proposal argues that planting more trees will effectively counteract the negative effects of acid rain. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of this argument.

Answer:

• Strengths: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and some pollutants, potentially reducing acid precursors. Increased forest cover can improve soil health and nutrient retention, mitigating some acid rain damage.

• Weaknesses: Planting the right types of trees in the right locations is crucial. Trees might not be effective in all affected areas, particularly aquatic ecosystems. Acid rain also leaches nutrients from soil, potentially hindering tree growth.

3. Some argue that reducing air travel significantly would be impractical and ineffective in combatting acid rain. Evaluate this argument considering both economic and environmental factors.

Answer:

• Economic factors: Air travel contributes a smaller portion of acid rain-causing emissions compared to industries and power plants. However, reducing air travel could impact tourism and related industries, requiring alternative economic solutions.

• Environmental factors: Any reduction in emissions from any source contributes to solving the acid rain problem. While the impact of reduced air travel might be smaller, it adds to a cumulative effect alongside other measures.

4. Scientists develop a new technology that effectively captures sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from power plant emissions. Analyze the potential societal implications of widespread adoption of this technology.

Answer:

• Positive implications: Reduced acid rain could lead to improved environmental health, benefiting ecosystems and human health. Cleaner air could decrease respiratory illnesses and healthcare costs.

• Negative implications: Implementing the new technology might require significant financial investment and infrastructure changes. Some existing jobs in related industries could be impacted by cleaner technology.