Chapter 21, Problem 86AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The pH of rainwater when ${\text{SO}}_{\text{2}}$ gets dissolved in it in the troposphere is to be calculated.

Concept Introduction:

Normal rainwater exhibits a pH of 5.6 (slightly acidic). This is due to the fact that rainwater is exposed to carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

The sulfur dioxide gets dissolved in the rainwater and forms sulfurous acid. The reaction is as follows:

${\text{SO}}_{\text{2}}(g)+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}(l)\rightleftharpoons {\text{H}}^{\text{+}}(aq)+{\text{HSO}}_3^{-}(aq)$.