• Question: How does rain water erode surfaces

    Asked by beep46can to Annette on 12 Nov 2019.
    • Photo: Annette Wilson

      Annette Wilson answered on 12 Nov 2019:

      Hi beep46can! đŸ™‚ Good question!

      Rain can erode surfaces in 2 ways: physically and chemically. When the rain hits the surface it physically erodes it and, over time it can change the surface, especially if there is heavy rain for a long time. Acid rain can cause chemical erosion of surfaces. When there is a lot of air pollution, raindrops can be slightly acidic and can cause stone or metal surfaces (like statues, bridges, or headstones) to change or dissolve. It can also change or damage the local environment, trees, wildlife.

Comments

  • Photo: Ann

    Ann commented on :

    Rainwater is slightly acidic . When this rainwater falls on limestone areas like the Burren in Co. Clare it dissolves the limestone ( because limestone is alkaline) & this results in the formation of caves & taverns.!