How do sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen contribute to acid rain?

Sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen contribute to acid rain primarily through the process of dissolving in rainwater. When these gases are released into the atmosphere, they can interact with moisture present in the air. As they dissolve in the rainwater, they undergo chemical reactions that produce sulfuric acid and nitric acid, respectively. These acids remain in the rain, lowering its pH and resulting in acid rain.

This process is significant because acid rain can have detrimental effects on the environment, including damaging vegetation, harming aquatic ecosystems, and eroding buildings and monuments. Understanding the role of these gases in forming acid rain highlights the importance of controlling emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides to mitigate environmental damage.