How are terrestrial systems (soils and plants) affected by acid rain?

Question

both direct and indirect effects.

Answer 1

Acid rain reduces the soil's pH buffer capacity, increasing anion leaching.  This means plants have a more difficult time uptaking the proper nutrients.  Acid rain also increases the mobility of Al3+, which is toxic to plants.  Acid rain is generally stressful to plants, which makes them more suseptable to diseases, pathogens, etc.