What is a potential consequence of acid rain on infrastructure?

Acid rain has a significant impact on infrastructure, primarily due to its ability to cause corrosion of buildings and other structures. This occurs because acid rain contains sulfuric and nitric acids formed when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are released into the atmosphere and react with water. When acid rain falls on buildings, particularly those made from limestone, marble, and concrete, it can react chemically with the minerals in these materials. This reaction leads to the deterioration of the surface and overall weakening of structural components over time.

Corrosion not only affects the aesthetic aspect of buildings by causing them to appear weathered and damaged, but it also compromises their structural integrity, leading to potential safety hazards. Therefore, it is vital to understand that acid rain poses a real threat to infrastructure, necessitating measures to mitigate its effects.

The other options do not align with the impacts of acid rain, as it does not improve the durability of materials, strengthen concrete, or offer any protective benefits to metals. Instead, it actively works against these materials, leading to deterioration and increased maintenance costs.