Why are Limestone structures eroded by acid rain?

CO2 present in the air can dissolve in rain water producing carbonic acid. This acid is weak but can give rain water a slightly acidic pH of around 5.6

When this rain water falls it reacts with the claim carbonate present in limestone, in the following reaction:

Calcium carbonate + carbonic acid -> Calcium Salt + Water + CO2

This reaction has been responsible for the natural formation of limestone caves over millions of years, but more recently more acidic rain has been produce by the excess Sulfur Dioxide produced by burning Coal. SO2 reacts with water in the atmosphere to produce Sulphuric acid (H2SO4). This acid is stronger than carbonic acid and can give water a pH of below 5. When this falls as acid rain it produces a strong reaction with calcium carbonate which may erode statues and buildings, and cause damage to environmental features such as crops and trees.

GL
Answered by Greg L. Chemistry tutor

19278 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the effects of increasing the 1)Pressure 2) Temperature of the following system and what effect this will have on the equilibrium position of this reversible reaction given the forward reaction is exothermic 3H2 + N2 <--> 2NH3


Explain how we can increase the rate of a chemical reaction.(6 marks)


Balance the following equation: Na + H2O -> NaOH + H2


What is a catalyst, and how does it affect the rate of reaction?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning