What effect does the reaction of calcium oxide with sulfur dioxide have on environmental pollution?

The reaction of calcium oxide with sulfur dioxide plays a significant role in reducing air pollution, particularly in the context of industrial emissions. When calcium oxide, commonly known as quicklime, reacts with sulfur dioxide, it forms calcium sulfate. This reaction is particularly valuable in power plants and various industrial settings where sulfur dioxide is emitted as a byproduct of burning fossil fuels.

By using calcium oxide to neutralize sulfur dioxide, the overall level of sulfur dioxide released into the atmosphere is minimized, thereby decreasing the potential for acid rain formation, which results from sulfur dioxide mixing with water vapor in the atmosphere. This intervention helps improve air quality and mitigates the harmful environmental effects associated with elevated levels of sulfur compounds in the atmosphere.

In contrast, other options such as increasing acid rain, having no impact on pollution, or increasing carbon emissions do not accurately reflect the beneficial outcome of this reaction. The use of calcium oxide is specifically aimed at addressing sulfur dioxide emissions, which contributes to reducing overall air pollution.