Stone leprosy is caused by

Options

A. `CO_(2)`
B. PAN
C. `SO_(2)`
D. `H_(2)O`

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Stone Leprosy**: Stone leprosy refers to the deterioration of stone structures, particularly due to environmental factors. It is primarily associated with the effects of acid rain on buildings and monuments.

2. **Identifying the Cause**: The main cause of stone leprosy is the reaction of pollutants in the atmosphere with rainwater. When industrial fuels are burned, they release various gases into the atmosphere.

3. **Role of Pollutants**: The gases released include sulfur oxides (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These gases react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form acids, leading to acid rain.

4. **Impact of Acid Rain**: Acid rain has a corrosive effect on limestone and marble, which are common materials in many historical buildings. This corrosion leads to the deterioration of these materials, a phenomenon referred to as stone leprosy.

5. **Example of Stone Leprosy**: A well-known example of stone leprosy is the Taj Mahal, where the marble is deteriorating due to acid rain caused by sulfur dioxide and other pollutants.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the information provided, stone leprosy is primarily caused by sulfur dioxide (SO2), which is one of the pollutants that contribute to the formation of acid rain.

**Final Answer**: Stone leprosy is caused by Sulfur Dioxide (SO2).

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