Question

which impurity found in coal can lead to acid rain in the atmosphere? oxygen sulfur hydrogen lead

Explanation:

To determine the impurity in coal that causes acid rain, we analyze each option:

• Oxygen is a common element in the atmosphere and not an impurity in coal that causes acid rain.
• Sulfur in coal, when burned, forms sulfur dioxide ($\ce{SO_2}$), which reacts in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid, a major contributor to acid rain.
• Hydrogen in coal combustion mainly forms water vapor, not acid rain - causing compounds.
• Lead is a pollutant from coal but does not directly cause acid rain.

Answer:

B. sulfur