Explain conceptually the process by which the limestone can protect the lakes in the midwest from the effects of acid rain

Limestone dissolves in acid rain water to yield the bicarbonate ion.

Limestone is calcium carbonate. Acid rain is formed when oxides of nitrogen and sulfur dissolve in rain water. When this occurs, precipitation becomes acidic in nature.

When this acid rain falls in the lakes in the midwest which contain limestone, the limestone reacts with the acid rain water to produce bicarbonate ion.

Limestone dissolves easily in acid to produce the bicarbonate ion which buffers the lakes in the midwest against the effects of acid rain.

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Acid rain has various toxic acids which when comes in contact with the lake water lowers its pH value and makes it acidic. Limestone can neutralize the acid water and can reduce the toxicity of metals such as copper, aluminium, lead, nickel and zinc dissolved in water. These metals cause harm to aquatic life especially fishes. Thus, limestone can improve the reproduction and health of aquatic life, which will balance the fish population. In this way, limestone can protect the lakes in the mid-west from the harmful effects of acid rain.

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