Ocean Acidification

Front

What is ocean acidification?

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Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.

Front

What is the primary cause of ocean acidification?

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The primary cause of ocean acidification is the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide, primarily from human activities such as burning fossil fuels.

Front

How does carbon dioxide affect seawater chemistry?

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When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the ocean.

Front

What is carbonic acid?

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Carbonic acid is a weak acid formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, contributing to ocean acidification.

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How does ocean acidification impact marine life?

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Ocean acidification can harm marine organisms, particularly those with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, making it difficult for them to grow and survive.

Front

What is the relationship between atmospheric CO2 and ocean CO2 levels?

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There is a direct correlation between atmospheric CO2 levels and CO2 concentrations in seawater; as atmospheric CO2 increases, so does the CO2 in the ocean.

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Can ocean acidification affect marine food webs?

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Yes, ocean acidification can disrupt marine food webs by affecting the health and survival of key species, such as shellfish and plankton.

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What role do marine organisms play in the carbon cycle?

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Marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by absorbing CO2 during photosynthesis and contributing to carbon sequestration.

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What are some potential long-term effects of ocean acidification?

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Potential long-term effects include decreased biodiversity, altered species distributions, and impacts on fisheries and aquaculture.

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How does ocean acidification affect sound in the ocean?

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Ocean acidification can affect the ability of marine organisms to communicate and detect predators, as changes in water chemistry can alter sound propagation.