Nature of science:
Risks and problems - oxides of metals and non-metals can be characterized by their acid-base properties. Acid deposition is a topic that can be discussed from different perspectives. Chemistry allows us to understand and to reduce the environmental impact of human activities. 4.8
Essential idea: Increased industrialization has led to greater production of nitrogen and sulfur oxides leading to acid rain, which is damaging our environment. These problems can be reduced through collaboration with national and intergovernmental organizations
Rain is naturally acidic because of dissolved CO2 and has a pH of 5.6. Acid deposition has a pH below 5.6.
Acid deposition is formed when nitrogen or sulfur oxides dissolve in water to form HNO3, HNO2, H2SO4 and H2SO3.
Sources of the oxides of sulfur and nitrogen and the effects of acid deposition should be covered.
Balancing the equations that describe the combustion of sulfur and nitrogen to their oxides and the subsequent formation of H2SO3, H2SO4, HNO2 and HNO3.
Distinction between the pre-combustion and post-combustion methods of reducing sulfur oxides emissions.
Deduction of acid deposition equations for acid deposition with reactive metals and carbonates
The polluter country and polluted country are often not the same. Acid deposition is a secondary pollutant that affects regions far from the primary source. Solving this problem requires international cooperation.
All rain is acidic but not all rain is "acid rain".
Scientific terms have a precise definition. Does scientific vocabulary simply communicate our knowledge in a neutral way or can it have value-laden terminology?
Topic 3.2-the acid/base character of the oxides
Option B.2-pH change and enzyme activity
Option C.2-sulfur dioxide is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels with high levels of sulfur impurities
Environmental systems and societies topic 5.8-acid deposition
Geography Option G: Urban Environments-urban stress and the sustainable city; HL-Global interactions-environmental change
Aim 6: The effects of acid rain on different construction materials could be quantitatively investigated.
Aim 8: A discussion of the impact of acid rain in different countries will help raise awareness of the environmental impact of this secondary pollutant and the political implications.
Aim 8: Other means of reducing oxide production-bus use, car pooling, etc. could be discussed