Ocean Acidification and Its Effects

Ocean acidification, a lesser-known consequence of global warming, is altering ocean chemistry and affecting marine life. The ocean absorbs CO2, leading to chemical reactions that reduce carbonate ions, crucial for marine calcifiers like oysters and coral. This results in weaker shells and impacts the seafood industry. Fish are also affected, with changes in growth and predator avoidance. Historical fluctuations allowed adaptation, but current rates are too rapid. Coastal acidification, influenced by factors like upwelling, exacerbates the issue. Solutions involve reducing fossil fuel reliance, and NOAA plans to study these changes to aid affected communities.

What is the primary cause of ocean acidification?

• Increased levels of nitrogen in the atmosphere

• Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

• Decreased levels of oxygen in the atmosphere

• Increased levels of methane in the atmosphere

What is the pH scale used to measure?

• Temperature

• Salinity

• Acidity

• Density

How does ocean acidification affect marine calcifiers?

• It strengthens their shells

• It makes their shells more colorful

• It weakens and deforms their shells

• It has no effect on their shells

What indirect effect does ocean acidification have on fish?

• Increases their size

• Enhances their swimming speed

• Improves their vision

• Impacts their ability to smell

Which marine organisms are referred to as the 'power bars of the sea'?

• Pteropods

• Oysters

• Coral

• Mussels

How much has the pH of surface ocean water dropped since the Industrial Revolution?

• 0.1 unit

• 0.5 unit

• 1.0 unit

• 1.5 units

What is the projected increase in ocean acidity by the end of the century?

• 200%

• 100%

• 50%

• 150%

What natural phenomenon exacerbates the effects of ocean acidification along certain coasts?

• Tidal waves

• Coastal upwelling

• Hurricanes

• El Niño

What is one of the main solutions to stop ocean acidification?

• Increasing fishing activities

• Increasing agricultural runoff

• Building more dams

• Reducing reliance on fossil fuels

What did Osbourne's study on California coastal waters reveal?

• They are acidifying twice as fast as the global average

• They are becoming more alkaline

• They are acidifying at the same rate as the global average

• They are not affected by acidification