Why is acid rain harmful for aquatic organisms in lakes?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: It can lower water pH and affect life processes
Acid rain forms when acidic oxides, especially sulfur and nitrogen oxides, react with atmospheric moisture and produce acidic substances. When this precipitation enters a lake, it can lower the water’s pH. A changed pH can disturb enzyme activity, respiration, reproduction, and mineral balance in aquatic organisms, and may also increase the solubility of harmful metals. Thus A is correct; the other options deny or trivialise the chemical effect.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
It can lower water pH and affect life processes
Why is this the correct answer?
Acid rain forms when acidic oxides, especially sulfur and nitrogen oxides, react with atmospheric moisture and produce acidic substances. When this precipitation enters a lake, it can lower the water’s pH. A changed pH can disturb enzyme activity, respiration, reproduction, and mineral balance in aquatic organisms, and may also increase the solubility of harmful metals. Thus A is correct; the other options deny or trivialise the chemical effect.
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.
