Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Carbonic acid is a weak acid formed when carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolves in water. It plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of acidity in natural waters and is responsible for the slight acidity of rainwater.
The greenhouse effect refers to the trapping of heat by certain gases (including CO2) in Earth's atmosphere, which leads to global warming. Carbonic acid contributes to this effect as it forms from CO2 absorption.
Acid Dissociation Constant (Ka): The Ka value represents the strength of an acid by measuring its tendency to donate hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water. Carbonic acid has two dissociation constants due to its ability to release two H+ ions successively.
Coral bleaching occurs when coral reefs expel the symbiotic algae living within their tissues, causing them to turn white. Increased carbonic acid levels in seawater due to higher CO2 concentrations can contribute to coral bleaching events.