Table of Contents
What molecules are in rain?
Rainwater is a mixed electrolyte that contains varying amounts of major and minor ions. Sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, bicarbonate, and sulfate ions are major constituents, to- gether with ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, nitrogen, and other nitroge- nous compounds (Hutchinson, 1957).
What happens to water molecules when it rains?
These clouds may produce precipitation, which is the primary route for water to return to the Earth’s surface within the water cycle. As condensation occurs and liquid water forms from the vapor, the water molecules become more organized and heat is released into the atmosphere as a result.
What rainwater contains?
Rainwater is typically devoid of all dissolved solids but contains dissolved gases (oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur) which result in pH values of about 5.5 or lower. In coastal areas rainwater may also contain up to 15 mg/l of sodium chloride from sea-spray.
Does rain water contain minerals?
Rain contains few salts, minerals, treatment chemicals or pharmaceuticals often found in municipal tap water. Though relatively pure, rainwater can contain particulates from the atmosphere, such as dust or pollen. Well water can be very hard because it contains minerals from the bedrock it comes from.
What is TDS of rain water?
TDS of rainwater can be less than 20 to 50 mg/l. Pollution can be the main cause of higher TDS. Rainwater, if collected and preserved efficiently, can fulfil all the requirements of the safe drinking water quality.
Does rain water have nutrients?
Rain contains nitrates—an important macro-nutrient. Rainwater contains nitrate – the most bio-available form of nitrogen. Nitrates, which are made up of nitrogen and oxygen, are formulated by nature for maximum uptake by your plants. Plants typically absorb most of their nitrates from the soil.
What is the pH of rain water?
between 5.0 and 5.5
Normal, clean rain has a pH value of between 5.0 and 5.5, which is slightly acidic. However, when rain combines with sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxides—produced from power plants and automobiles—the rain becomes much more acidic. Typical acid rain has a pH value of 4.0.