Saurer Regen, eine Folge der Störung hydrogeochemischer Kreisläufe

The occurrence of acid precipitation in regions of the northern hemisphere results from the anthropogenic disturbance of cycles that couple land, water and atmosphere. The oxidation of C, S and N resulting mostly from fossil fuel burning rivals oxidation processes induced by photosynthesis; the acidity of rain is a consequence of these redox processes in the atmosphere and in the rain. In evaluating the impact of aqueous acidity upon the environment and vice versa, it is essential to distinguish between free H⁺ acidity and the H⁺ reservoir (base-neutralizing capacity). The acidification of lakes, streams and soils is influenced by hydrology, biota, geology and weathering rates.