How does acid rain affect nutrient cycling?

Acid rain has a significant impact on nutrient cycling, primarily by leaching essential nutrients from the soil. When sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are released into the atmosphere, they can form sulfuric and nitric acids upon reacting with water vapor. This acidic precipitation can lower the pH of the soil, which in turn affects the availability of nutrients.

As the soil becomes more acidic, important nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium can be dissolved and washed away through leaching. This process reduces the availability of these nutrients for plant uptake, disrupting nutrient cycling in the ecosystem. Additionally, as vital nutrients are depleted from the soil, the overall health of the ecosystem can decline, leading to reduced plant vigor, altered species composition, and impacts on herbivores and higher trophic levels.

The other options do not accurately describe the effects of acid rain on nutrient cycling. It does not increase nutrient retention or enhance nutrient absorption in plants; in fact, the opposite occurs due to nutrient loss. Also, acid rain has a substantial impact on ecosystems, contrary to the assertion that it has no significant effect. Understanding the leaching process caused by acid rain is crucial for comprehending its broader implications for soil health and ecosystem sustainability