# Describe how the burning of fossil fuels can lead to damage to freshwater ecosystems.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 1.6.3 Human impact on the environment · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Burning fossil fuels releases sulfur dioxide / nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere
2. These gases dissolve in rainwater / clouds to form acid rain
3. Acid rain lowers the pH of lakes / rivers / freshwater ecosystems
4. Low pH is toxic to / kills aquatic organisms, reducing biodiversity

## Key terms

- [fossil fuels](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fossil-fuels)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "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/describe-how-the-burning-of-fossil-bf9870e0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.