Acidic precipitation, commonly known as acid rain, occurs when rainwater becomes more acidic than normal due to the presence of pollutants in the atmosphere. These pollutants, primarily sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, are released from sources like vehicles, industrial processes, and burning fossil fuels. When these gases react with water vapor in the atmosphere, they form sulfuric and nitric acids, which then fall to the ground as precipitation. This type of precipitation can have harmful effects on the environment. It can damage forests, harm aquatic ecosystems in lakes and rivers, and erode buildings and monuments. Acidic precipitation can also affect soil quality, making it difficult for plants to absorb essential nutrients.