Basic precipitation

Basic precipitation occurs when calcium oxide and sodium hydroxide are emitted into the atmosphere, undergo chemical transformations, and are absorbed by water droplets in clouds. The droplets then fall to earth as rain, snow, or sleet. This can increase the pH of the soil, and affect the chemical balance of lakes and streams. Basic rain has been observed near industrial plants producing cement by Peter Townsend of Antioch College. This basic rain can be viewed as being related to acid rain.

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The principal cause of basic rain is calcium and sodium from human sources, such as industrial factories and waste deposits. The gases can be carried in the atmosphere before they are converted to bases and deposited.

See also

• Acid rain