What is the chemical equation for the reaction of acid rain with limestone?

The reaction of acid rain with limestone involves an acid, typically sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), interacting with calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), which is the main component of limestone. In this reaction, the calcium carbonate reacts with sulfuric acid to produce calcium sulfate (CaSO₄), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water (H₂O). This production of carbon dioxide is a key aspect of the reaction, as it can contribute to the effervescence observed when acid reacts with carbonate materials.

This equation accurately represents the chemical processes that occur when acidic rainwater, which can contain dissolved sulfuric acid from atmospheric pollution, falls on limestone and leads to its weathering and dissolution. The formation of calcium sulfate is significant in the context of geological and environmental chemistry, as it explains how acid rain can lead to the degradation of limestone structures and natural formations over time.

The other options involve different acids or reactions that do not specifically reflect the interaction between acid rain and limestone. While they describe valid chemical processes, they do not pertain directly to the effects of acid rain on limestone, thereby making the selected equation the most appropriate choice.