Environment > Acidification: Countries Compared

<p>Acidification indicates the presence of acid in soil, rainfall and waterways such as lakes

and rivers. Acidification is caused by the presence of oxides in the air which react with

atmospheric water to form acids. The acids fall to the ground as <a

href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acid_rain\">acid rain</a> or snow.</p>

<p><a href=\"/graph/env_pol_sul_oxi_per_cap\">Sulfur</a> and <a

href=\"/graph/env_pol_nit_oxi_per_cap\">nitrogen oxides</a> are the greatest contributors to

acidification. About half of all sulfur oxides and most nitrogen oxides enter the atmosphere

from natural sources, however human activities such as electricity generation, metal

smelting, burning of fossil fuels and vehicle exhaust also contribute a significant amount.

</p>

<p>The effects of acidification include:
<li>Damage to the bark and leaves of trees. The trees lose their leaves, their growth will

be stunted and they will become more vulnerable to disease and insects.</li>
<li>Damage to ecosystems. Fish and their eggs in acid streams and lakes will die. This

problem is worst in early spring when acid snow melts and the fish are newly hatched.

Animals and birds that normally feed on the fish will be effected by the reduced food

supply.</li>
<li>Damage to buildings. Acid rain damages the surface of buildings and artwork especially

those made from sandstone, limestone or marble.</li>
<li>Damage to metals. Acid rain causes corrosion in metal structures such as railroad lines,

airplanes, cars, steel bridges, and underground pipes.</li></p>