Ocean Acidification

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification refers to the decrease in pH levels of the ocean due to the absorption of excess atmospheric CO2, leading to more acidic waters.

Front

What is the chemical equation for carbonic acid dissociation in water?

Back

H2CO3 <-> HCO3- + H+

Front

What role does bicarbonate play in ocean chemistry?

Back

Bicarbonate (HCO3-) is a key component in the ocean's carbon cycle, acting as a buffer to help maintain pH levels.

Front

How does increased CO2 in the atmosphere affect ocean pH?

Back

Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to higher CO2 levels in seawater, resulting in lower pH (more acidic conditions).

Front

What do marine organisms use carbonate ions for?

Back

Marine organisms use carbonate ions (CO3^2-) to build shells and exoskeletons.

Front

What percentage of dissolved CO2 in the ocean is converted to bicarbonate?

Back

Approximately 92% of the carbon dioxide dissolved in the ocean ends up as bicarbonate.

Front

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

Back

There is a direct correlation; as atmospheric CO2 increases, CO2 levels in seawater also increase.

Front

What happens to the availability of carbonate ions as ocean acidity increases?

Back

As ocean acidity increases, the availability of carbonate ions decreases, making it harder for marine organisms to build shells.

Front

What is the pH scale and its significance in ocean acidification?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is; a lower pH indicates more acidic conditions, which is significant in assessing ocean health.

Front

What are the potential impacts of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems?

Back

Ocean acidification can harm marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate structures, disrupt food webs, and affect biodiversity.