Which of the following is a negative impact of acid rain?

Acid rain is a significant environmental issue that results from the deposition of sulfuric and nitric acids formed in the atmosphere by the combustion of fossil fuels. This phenomenon has detrimental effects on many ecosystems. One of the primary negative impacts of acid rain is its ability to damage forests and harm aquatic life.

When acid rain falls on forests, it can leach essential nutrients from the soil, such as calcium and magnesium, which are vital for tree health. The acidity can stress plants and lead to reduced growth and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests. Additionally, acid rain can directly harm leaf tissues, leading to decreased photosynthesis and overall vitality.

In aquatic environments, acid rain can drastically alter the pH of water bodies. Many fish species and other aquatic organisms have specific pH requirements for survival. Lower pH levels can result in harmful conditions, such as disrupted reproduction, increased toxicity of heavy metals, and even death of sensitive species. This illustrates how acid rain severely impacts biodiversity in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, making this option the most appropriate choice regarding the negative effects of acid rain.