Which one of the following is responsible for turning Taj Mahal yellow?

The correct answer is Sulphur Dioxide.

Key Points

• Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) is a significant air pollutant responsible for the yellowing of the Taj Mahal.
• SO₂ emissions primarily come from the combustion of fossil fuels in industries, power plants, and vehicles.
• When SO₂ mixes with moisture in the air, it forms sulfuric acid, contributing to acid rain.
• Acid rain reacts with the marble of the Taj Mahal (calcium carbonate), leading to its discoloration and deterioration.

Additional Information

• Air Pollution:
  • Air pollution is the contamination of the atmosphere by harmful substances including gases, particulates, and biological molecules.
  • Common air pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NO_x), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM).
• Acid Rain:
  • Acid rain is rain that has been made acidic by certain pollutants in the air, specifically sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NO_x).
  • It can have harmful effects on plants, aquatic animals, and infrastructure.
• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃):
  • Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound commonly found in rocks as minerals calcite and aragonite, and in the shells of marine organisms, snails, and eggs.
  • It is the main component of the marble used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
• Preservation Efforts:
  • The Indian government has implemented various measures to reduce pollution around the Taj Mahal, including restrictions on vehicular traffic and the establishment of a green buffer zone.
  • Efforts are ongoing to clean and preserve the monument from the effects of pollution and acid rain.