Chapter 5 - The Chemistry of Seawater

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification refers to the decrease in pH levels of the ocean due to the absorption of excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, leading to harmful effects on marine life.

Front

What structures in marine organisms are most affected by ocean acidification?

Back

Structures made of Calcium Carbonate, such as shells and skeletons of corals and some shellfish, are most affected by ocean acidification.

Front

What is the scientific name for table salt?

Back

Sodium Chloride (NaCl) is the scientific name for table salt.

Front

What type of bond is represented by dashed lines in molecular structures?

Back

Dashed lines represent Hydrogen bonds, which are weak attractions between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom.

Front

What does high specific heat of water mean?

Back

High specific heat means that water can absorb a lot of heat before its temperature changes significantly, allowing it to stabilize temperatures in the environment.

Front

How does salinity in seawater change?

Back

Salinity can increase or decrease through the removal or addition of pure water, such as through evaporation or precipitation.

Front

What is the role of silica in marine organisms?

Back

Silica is a key component in the structures of some marine organisms, such as diatoms and sponges, providing strength and support.

Front

What is the impact of increased dissolved gases in seawater?

Back

Increased dissolved gases can affect the chemical balance of seawater, potentially impacting marine life and ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between covalent and ionic bonds?

Back

Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, while ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in charged ions.

Front

Why is water considered a polar molecule?

Back

Water is considered a polar molecule because of its bent shape and the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen, leading to a partial positive charge on hydrogen and a partial negative charge on oxygen.