Question detail
What is sulfur dioxide and how does it contribute to acid rain?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources
Question
What is sulfur dioxide and how does it contribute to acid rain?
Answer
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a gas produced when sulfur impurities in fossil fuels are burned. It can react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid, which leads to acid rain.
Explanation
A strong answer should directly address the approved learning objective to explain that sulfur dioxide can cause acid rain. This question belongs to Properties and effects of atmospheric pollutants within Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources, so the response should use that exact curriculum context rather than a generic statement. The answer is correct when it names the key idea, explains the link to sulfur dioxide, and keeps the wording specific to AQA GCSE revision.
Common mistake
Confusing Sulfur Dioxide with Other Pollutants
Students often confuse sulfur dioxide with other pollutants like carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen, leading to incorrect explanations of acid rain.
To fix this, students should focus on the specific sources and effects of sulfur dioxide, emphasizing its role in acid rain and distinguishing it from other pollutants.
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