Which of the following is a negative impact of acid rain on the environment?

The negative impact of acid rain on the environment is exemplified by its damaging effects on forests. Acid rain occurs when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, released from burning fossil fuels, react with water vapor in the atmosphere to produce sulfuric and nitric acids. When this acidic precipitation falls to the ground, it can lead to a range of harmful effects on forest ecosystems.

In forests, acid rain can lower the pH of the soil, making it more acidic. This change can harm trees and other vegetation by leaching essential nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium, from the soil. Additionally, the increased acidity can directly damage leaves, hinder photosynthesis, and weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to disease and pests. Over time, these factors can result in reduced forest health, loss of biodiversity, and altered forest composition, ultimately affecting the entire ecosystem.

In contrast, the other options depict scenarios that do not represent the detrimental effects of acid rain. It does not contribute positively to soil fertility, reduce air pollution, or promote aquatic life; instead, it can harm wildlife in aquatic systems by altering water pH and harming fish and other organisms.