Why can acid rain damage marble buildings?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Acids can react with calcium carbonate
Marble consists mainly of calcium carbonate, CaCO₃. Acids present in acid rain react with carbonates to form a salt, water and carbon dioxide; in general, acid + carbonate → salt + H₂O + CO₂. Repeated exposure can dissolve or weaken the marble surface and damage carved details. Therefore option A correctly states the governing reaction. The other options either claim an impossible conversion or deny the chemical reaction involved.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Acids can react with calcium carbonate
Why is this the correct answer?
Marble consists mainly of calcium carbonate, CaCO₃. Acids present in acid rain react with carbonates to form a salt, water and carbon dioxide; in general, acid + carbonate → salt + H₂O + CO₂. Repeated exposure can dissolve or weaken the marble surface and damage carved details. Therefore option A correctly states the governing reaction. The other options either claim an impossible conversion or deny the chemical reaction involved.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
