What phenomenon results from the deposition of acidic rain?

The phenomenon that results from the deposition of acidic rain is best understood as "acid precipitation." This term refers to the process whereby rain falls to the Earth with a lower pH, often due to the presence of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere. These pollutants can originate from vehicles, industrial processes, and burning fossil fuels. When they combine with water vapor, they form sulfuric and nitric acids, which then precipitate as acid rain.

The effects of acid precipitation are significant, affecting ecosystems, water bodies, and soil composition. For example, it can leach nutrients from the soil, harming plant life and consequently impacting the entire food chain. Additionally, it can lower the pH of lakes and streams, making these environments inhospitable for many aquatic species.

This understanding highlights the serious environmental challenges posed by acid precipitation, clearly differentiating it from the other options, which do not accurately reflect the concept of acidic rain. While water contamination may occur as a result of acid rain, it is not the direct phenomenon described. Soil fertility does not increase but can actually decrease, and increased biodiversity does not typically result from the negative impacts of acid precipitation.