Acid Deposition

is precipitation (rain, snow, etc.) made acidic by the addition of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere as a result of fossil fuel burning. Automobile exhaust and em:issions from coal-fired power plants are two significant causes of acid deposition. In severe cases, acid precipitation kills fish and other aquatic life and damages and/or destroys trees and crops. In some instances, it has rendered entire lakes and forests nearly lifeless.