Sulfur trioxide (SO3)

Definition

Sulfur trioxide is a chemical compound composed of one sulfur atom bonded with three oxygen atoms. It is primarily produced from burning fossil fuels containing sulfur impurities and contributes to acid rain formation.

Analogy

Think of sulfur trioxide as a sneaky ninja hiding inside coal or oil - when they burn, this ninja escapes into the atmosphere and causes trouble by forming acid rain.

Related terms

Acid Rain: Precipitation that has an acidic pH due to high concentrations of sulfuric acid and nitric acid formed from pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Fossil Fuels: Non-renewable energy sources formed from ancient organic materials like plants and animals over millions of years; examples include coal, oil, and natural gas.

Combustion: The process of burning a fuel source with oxygen to release energy; it often produces various pollutants, including sulfur trioxide.