Which of the following pollutants is primarily responsible for acid rain?

Nitrogen oxides are primarily responsible for acid rain because they react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form nitric acid. This process typically occurs when fossil fuels are burned in vehicles, power plants, and industrial facilities, releasing nitrogen oxides into the air. Once these compounds are in the atmosphere, they can be transported long distances before being deposited back to the earth as acid rain, which has harmful effects on the environment, including damage to forests, lakes, and building materials.

The formation of acid rain is also influenced by sulfur dioxide, which is not listed in the provided choices but is another significant contributor, as it produces sulfuric acid in a similar manner. Understanding the primary pollutants involved in acid rain is crucial for effective environmental management and pollution control strategies.