The Effects of Acid Rain
Students explore the effect of chemical erosion on statues and monuments. They use chalk to see what happens when limestone is placed in liquids with different pH values. They also learn several engineering approaches to reduce the effects of acid rain.
The effects of acid rain on a statue.Copyright Brian Robert Marshall http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2357062
Engineers consider the possible effects of acid rain on the health of humans and the environment when they investigate damage to bodies of water, wildlife, forests, crops and contamination of the drinking water supply. Engineers help to develop laws that prevent or limit large factories and industries from generating and releasing pollutants. And, they develop new technologies to help reduce air and water pollutants, such as better air cleaners and air filtration systems for industry and energy-efficient cars and appliances.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Give examples of common acids and bases.
- Describe acid rain and chemical erosion and how they affect the environment.
- List several things that engineers are doing to reduce acid rain and its effects.