Ocean Acidification

Oceans are _____

• Acidic

• Basic

• Neutral

Which dissolved compound is responsible for lowering the pH of ocean water?

• Na⁺

• H₂CO₃

Which dissolved compounds are responsible for ocean water's basic pH?

• Na⁺

• H₂CO₃

​Coral provides _______ for 25% of ocean species​

• shelter

• food

• vacation destination

​Increasing CO₂ levels in the atmosphere ​ (a)  

which leads to coral bleaching.​

• causes the ocean's temperature to rise
• lowers the ocean's pH
• raises the ocean's pH

What effect does ocean warming have on corals?

• Helps corals grow faster

• Causes corals to become more vibrant in color

• Induces stress in corals leading to expulsion of algae

• Enhances the strength of coral reefs

What happens to corals when they expel the algae living in their tissues?

• Corals become stronger

• Corals turn white or very pale

• Corals experience accelerated growth

• Corals become resistant to diseases

Why is ocean acidification considered a risk to fish and shellfish populations?

• It leads to lower water temperatures

• It reduces the acidity of the ocean

• It eliminates food sources for these species

• It stimulates growth in fish and shellfish

Why is a decrease in ocean pH concerning for marine life and human populations?

• It accelerates the growth of coral reefs

• It enhances breeding grounds for aquatic species

• It disrupts the food web and habitat availability

• It improves water quality and clarity

What is the equilibrium constant expression for the reaction: CO₂(g) + H₂O(l) ⇌ H₂CO₃(aq)?