Understanding Ocean Acidification

Paul Andersen explains ocean acidification, a process caused by increased carbon dioxide levels, similar to global warming. He demonstrates how carbon dioxide lowers pH, making water more acidic, and discusses the chemical reactions involved. The video highlights the impact on marine life, including decreased metabolism and immune response, and projects future pH changes. It also examines the effects on shell formation and coral reefs, emphasizing the need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to mitigate these issues.

What is the common cause of both global warming and ocean acidification?

• Decreased levels of oxygen

• Increased levels of carbon dioxide

• Decreased levels of methane

• Increased levels of nitrogen

What happens to the pH of water when carbon dioxide is added?

• It becomes alkaline

• It becomes more acidic

• It becomes more basic

• It remains neutral

What compound is formed when carbon dioxide and water mix?

• Carbonic acid

• Sulfuric acid

• Hydrochloric acid

• Nitric acid

How does a decrease in pH affect marine organisms?

• Increases metabolism

• Decreases metabolism

• Increases immune response

• No effect on organisms

What was the pH of the oceans before industrialization?

• 7.8

• 8.25

• 7.0

• 8.1

What is the predicted pH of the oceans by 2100?

• 7.0

• 8.1

• 8.25

• 7.8

What is the main component of coral reefs that is affected by ocean acidification?

• Sodium chloride

• Magnesium sulfate

• Calcium carbonate

• Silicon dioxide

What happens to carbonate levels as ocean pH decreases?

• They fluctuate randomly

• They remain constant

• They increase

• They decrease

What is the 'double whammy' effect on coral reefs?

• Global warming and ocean acidification

• Increased algae growth and shell formation

• Decreased temperature and increased pH

• Increased salinity and decreased oxygen

What is a potential solution to both global warming and ocean acidification?

• Increasing carbon dioxide emissions

• Decreasing nitrogen emissions

• Decreasing carbon dioxide emissions

• Increasing methane emissions