pH and Ocean Acidification

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification refers to the decrease in pH levels of the ocean caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being neutral.

Front

What happens when carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater?

Back

When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the ocean.

Front

What is carbonic acid?

Back

Carbonic acid is a weak acid formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, contributing to ocean acidification.

Front

What is the effect of increased atmospheric CO2 on ocean pH?

Back

Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to higher levels of dissolved CO2 in seawater, resulting in lower pH and more acidic ocean conditions.

Front

What is the role of calcium carbonate in marine ecosystems?

Back

Calcium carbonate is essential for marine organisms like corals and shellfish, as it is used to build their shells and skeletons.

Front

What is an acid?

Back

An acid is a substance that has a pH less than 7 and can donate protons (H+) in a solution.

Front

What is a base?

Back

A base is a substance that has a pH greater than 7 and can accept protons (H+) in a solution.

Front

How does ocean acidification affect marine life?

Back

Ocean acidification can harm marine life, particularly organisms that rely on calcium carbonate, making it harder for them to build shells and skeletons.

Front

What percentage of atmospheric CO2 is absorbed by the oceans?

Back

Approximately 25% of the carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans.