Ocean Acidification

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, which dissolves in seawater.

Front

What is the chemical reaction that leads to ocean acidification?

Back

CO2 + H2O → H2CO3 (carbonic acid) which lowers the pH of the ocean.

Front

How does increased atmospheric CO2 affect seawater?

Back

Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to higher concentrations of CO2 in seawater, resulting in lower pH levels.

Front

What is the impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate?

Back

Ocean acidification makes it more difficult for marine organisms, such as crabs and corals, to form calcium carbonate structures like shells and skeletons.

Front

Why is calcium carbonate important for marine life?

Back

Calcium carbonate is essential for the formation of shells and skeletons in marine organisms, providing them with protection and structural support.

Front

What are some examples of marine organisms affected by ocean acidification?

Back

Examples include crabs, corals, mollusks (like oysters and clams), and some plankton species.

Front

How does ocean acidification affect marine food webs?

Back

Ocean acidification can disrupt marine food webs by affecting the survival and growth of key species, which in turn impacts predators and the overall ecosystem.

Front

What role does carbon dioxide play in ocean acidification?

Back

Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid, which lowers the pH and increases acidity.

Front

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

Back

There is a direct correlation; as atmospheric CO2 levels increase, ocean pH levels decrease (become more acidic).

Front

True or False: Ocean acidification can impair the ability of marine organisms to communicate.

Back

True; it can make it more difficult for marine organisms to hear each other and detect predators.