Does acid rain also have a corrosive effect on metals?

Acid rain indeed has a corrosive effect on metals due to its lower pH compared to normal rainwater. When rainwater becomes acidic, usually as a result of pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides mixing with water vapor, it can lead to the leaching of metals from surfaces. This corrosion can occur on a variety of metals, including both ferrous (iron-containing) and nonferrous metals.

The interaction between the acidic components in the rain and the metal surfaces can result in the breakdown of the protective oxide layers that may form on these metals. As these layers are compromised, the underlying metal becomes exposed to further reaction with the acid, leading to increased corrosion rates. This process is particularly concerning in urban areas with large amounts of industrial emissions, where acid rain can accelerate the deterioration of infrastructure, including bridges and buildings.

While certain metals may show varying degrees of vulnerability, it is inaccurate to say that acid rain exclusively affects only nonferrous metals or only has a corrosive impact under specific conditions. The damaging effects can happen broadly, making this phenomenon significant for a wide range of materials and structures exposed to acid rain.