# Acid rain is formed when sulfur dioxide dissolves in rainwater. State the source of sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere and describe two harmful effects of acid rain on the environment.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 10.3 Air quality and climate · State and Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Sulfur dioxide is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels (containing sulfur impurities) / burning of coal or oil in power stations
2. Acid rain damages/kills trees / causes leaves to fall / harms vegetation
3. Acid rain makes lakes and rivers more acidic, killing aquatic life / fish
4. Acid rain corrodes/damages buildings, statues or metallic structures (especially those made of limestone/marble/metals)

## Key terms

- [acid rain](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/acid-rain)
- [sulfur dioxide](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sulfur-dioxide)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "State and Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/acid-rain-is-formed-when-sulfur-bf55cd2b) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.