Introduction

=**Acid Rain**=

Acid rain is one of the many consequences of human industry and technology on the natural world. In essence, it is precipitation that, while condensing, mixes and then falls with high levels of acid, specifically nitric and sulfuric acid (NOx and SO2). Though acid rain accrues from small amounts of gas releases from volcanic eruptions and rotten vegetation, the great majority can be linked backed to societal activity. Sulfuric and nitric acid are released when fossil fuels (oil, coal, etc) are burned in cars and factories. The acids mix with the gases present in the atmosphere, fall to earth as precipitation (wet deposition) or dust (dry deposition) and enter bodies of water or sink into the soil. As bodies of water affected by acid rain turn acidic, they become toxic to aquatic animals, and, in turn, poison larger animals that feed on those directly affected by the pollutants. It also is extremely detrimental to tree populations, especially those at higher, more delicate elevations, weakening both their bodies and leaves and inhibiting their reproduction. Acid rain hinders plant reproduction and robs soil of its nutrients. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted the Acid Rain Program in 1995 in alignment with the Clean Air Act. The program is aimed specifically at dramatically reducing national emissions of sulfuric and nitric acid. The EPA releases data on current emissions frequently, and compiles it yearly. By determining the levels of SO2 and NOx emitted yearly, it is possible to determine a plan of action to limit them and thus curb the progression and effects of acid raid.

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 * Question: Does the number of cars in use in the United States have an impact on the amount of acid rain falling?**