The Formation of Acid Rain
PTE CoreSpeakingDescribe ImageItem #21
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Process Diagram

The Formation of Acid Rain

Prep: 25s
Record: 40s
Look at the image below. In 25 seconds, please speak into the microphone and describe in detail what the image is showing. You will have 40 seconds to give your response.
A diagram illustrating the formation of acid rain from emissions (industry, transportation, ore smelting, power generation) releasing nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, undergoing chemical transformation into nitric and sulfuric acid, and returning via dry deposition and precipitation.

Sample Answer & Key Features

Review official key features and a band-9 reference response

Key Points to Include in Your Description:
  • 1Process begins with emissions from industry, transportation, ore smelting, and power generation.
  • 2Releases nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) into the atmosphere.
  • 3Pollutants undergo chemical transformation forming nitric acid (HNO3) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4).
  • 4Acidic compounds return to Earth's surface through dry deposition (particulates/gases) or precipitation (rain, snow, mist).
  • 5Connects human industrial activity with atmospheric chemical reactions and environmental effects.