2.4 Ocean Acidification Lab

Which regions have the lowest pH levels? List ALL

What are some factors that could cause the low pH levels in these regions?

Looking back to the virtual urchin, in which region would urchins have better survival based on pH levels alone? (provide data that supports those regions) List ALL

Which regions showed the highest level of CO2? List ALL

What is the relationship between the pH levels and the levels of CO2?

What are the effects of the rising CO2 levels on sea urchins? (Think back to the virtual urchin activity.)

What would be the positive impact of rising CO2 levels on kelp?

Answer explanation

An increase in the CO2 levels would increase the rate of photosynthesis for kelp

What is ecosystem homeostasis?

Answer explanation

the ecosystem is stable, with limited changes in environment or population sizes

1/2 for only writing ecosystem is stable

Which regions seem to be maintaining homeostasis within the ecosystem? Support with evidence from the lab: Identify the regions by name Identify pH lab data Identify CO2 lab data Compare to stable ocean pH levels & stable CO2 levels List ALL

Answer explanation

The areas with a pH around 8.2 (neutral for oceans) are maintaining homeostasis. These areas are Kachemak Bay, Sitka Tribe, Ketchikan, Point Conception, and La Push. The water is not acidic so it is not hurting the populations of animals.

Which regions are not maintaining homeostasis within the ecosystem? List ALL ! Support with evidence from the lab: Identify the regions by name Identify pH lab data Identify CO2 lab data Compare to stable ocean pH levels & stable CO2 levels