Ocean Chemistry

Front

What is the main greenhouse gas that affects ocean chemistry?

Back

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gas that affects ocean chemistry.

Front

How does increased atmospheric CO2 affect ocean pH?

Back

Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to higher levels of CO2 in seawater, which can lower the pH, making the ocean more acidic.

Front

What type of algae is symbiotic with corals?

Back

Zooxanthellae are the type of algae that live inside corals and provide them with energy through photosynthesis.

Front

What is the relationship between corals and zooxanthellae?

Back

Corals and zooxanthellae have a mutualistic relationship, where both organisms benefit from each other.

Front

What is the pH scale range for acidic, neutral, and alkaline substances?

Back

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14: 0-6 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and 8-14 is alkaline.

Front

What happens to ocean chemistry as CO2 levels rise?

Back

As CO2 levels rise, ocean chemistry changes, leading to ocean acidification, which can harm marine life.

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification is the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased CO2 absorption.

Front

What is the significance of the pH of 8 in ocean water?

Back

A pH of 8 indicates that the water is slightly alkaline, which is typical for healthy ocean water.

Front

What is the impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms?

Back

Ocean acidification can negatively impact marine organisms, especially those with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, like corals and shellfish.

Front

What is the role of carbon dioxide in the carbon cycle?

Back

Carbon dioxide plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle, being absorbed by oceans and used by marine plants for photosynthesis.