Acid rain is a type of precipitation that is significantly more acidic than normal rainwater. It is caused by the release of certain pollutants into the atmosphere, with the main chemical pollutant responsible for acid rain being sulfur dioxide (SO2).

Sulfur dioxide is primarily emitted into the air through the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, in power plants and industrial facilities. When sulfur dioxide reacts with water vapor in the atmosphere, it forms sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which then falls back to the Earth as acid rain.

Acid rain can have detrimental effects on the environment, including harming aquatic life in lakes and rivers, damaging forests and crops, and corroding buildings and monuments. It can also have negative impacts on human health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

Reducing the emissions of sulfur dioxide and other pollutants can help mitigate the effects of acid rain. This can be done through the use of cleaner technologies in power plants, implementing stricter environmental regulations, and promoting renewable energy sources.

For more information on the causes and effects of acid rain, you can visit websites such as EPA or National Geographic. These resources provide detailed explanations of the science behind acid rain and offer solutions for reducing its impact on the environment.

In conclusion, sulfur dioxide is the main chemical pollutant responsible for causing acid rain. By understanding the sources of this pollutant and taking steps to reduce its emissions, we can work towards protecting our planet and preventing further damage from this harmful phenomenon.

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