Step 1: Understanding acid rain.
Acid rain occurs when sulfur dioxide (\(SO_2\)) and nitrogen oxides (\(NO_x\)) are released into the atmosphere due to burning of fossil fuels, industrial emissions, and vehicular pollution. These gases react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\) (sulfuric acid) and \(\text{HNO}_3\) (nitric acid).
Step 2: Identifying the cause.
Since acid rain is formed from pollutants present in the atmosphere, its direct cause is air pollution.
Step 3: Eliminating incorrect options.
- (A) Water Pollution → Related to contamination of water bodies, not acid rain.
- (B) Noise Pollution → Unrelated to chemical changes in rainwater.
- (C) Air Pollution → Correct, as it involves \(SO_2\) and \(NO_x\).
- (D) Solid Waste Pollution → Not connected with acid rain formation.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The main cause of acid rain is air pollution.
\[
\boxed{\text{Air Pollution}}
\]