Stars and STEM Stories
Omani GLOBE Students Study the Effect of Acid Rainwater on a Fig Tree
Acid rainwater is a dangerous environmental phenomenon that affects all living things, including the fig tree. Acid rainwater consists of sulfuric acid and nitric acid and is caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from factories and cars. Acid rainwater affects all components of the ecosystem, including soil, water, and plants. Students used The GLOBE Program's Water, Soil and Vegetation protocols to analyze the effect of acidic rainwater on a fig tree.
First, the students determined the components of acid rainwater. They then discussed the effect of acidic rainwater on soil properties, evaluated the effect of acidic rainwater on fig tree growth, and provided solutions to adapt to the effects of acid rainwater.
Components of acid rainwater include:
- Sulfuric acid
- Nitric acid
- Heavy metals (acid rainwater may contain some heavy metals, such as lead and mercury)
Acid rainwater has many effects on soil. Acid rainwater increases soil acidity. Acidic rainwater reduces the availability of some important nutrients to plants. Acid rainwater can also change the physical properties of the soil, such as forming a solid layer on the soil surface.
These effects were observed on the fig tree's growth:
- Tree stunting: The fig tree becomes short and stunted.
- Yellowing of leaves: Fig tree leaves become pale or yellow.
- Dry leaves: The leaves of the fig tree become dry and fall off.
- Tree death: In severe cases, the fig tree may die.
After the experiment, the students discussed solutions to adapt to the effect of acid rainwater. They found that planting acidity-resistant fig varieties may help because some types of fig trees are resistant to soil acidity. Farmers can use soil improvement techniques, such as adding lime to reduce the impact of acid rainwater. Local communities must be aware of the dangers of acid rainwater and take steps to reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
In conclusion, acid rainwater is a dangerous environmental phenomenon that affects all living things, including the fig tree. Farmers and local communities must take steps to adapt to the impact of acidic rainwater to protect the fig tree and the environment.
Image courtesy Dr. Ishaq Al-Jabri, GLOBE Oman.