Ocean acidification

Definition

Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the atmosphere, primarily from human activities like burning fossil fuels. This change in ocean chemistry affects marine life, ecosystems, and the overall health of the planet's integrated systems, highlighting the interconnectedness of Earth's spheres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ocean absorbs about 30% of the atmospheric CO2, leading to a decrease in pH levels and making the water more acidic over time.
2. Ocean acidification can hinder the ability of marine calcifiers to produce their shells and skeletons, threatening coral reefs and shellfish populations.
3. As acidity increases, it can disrupt marine food webs, affecting species like fish that depend on healthy ecosystems for survival.
4. The consequences of ocean acidification extend beyond marine life; it can impact human economies reliant on fishing and tourism.
5. Acidic waters can affect the sensory and cognitive functions of marine species, making them more vulnerable to predators and disrupting their behavior.

Review Questions

• How does ocean acidification illustrate the interconnections between different Earth systems?
  • Ocean acidification demonstrates the interconnections between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere by showing how increased carbon dioxide from human activities impacts ocean chemistry. The excess CO2 dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid and lowering the pH levels of the ocean. This change not only affects marine organisms but also has implications for global climate patterns and human economies that rely on healthy marine ecosystems.
• What are some specific impacts of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and biodiversity?
  • Ocean acidification negatively impacts marine ecosystems by disrupting the ability of calcifying organisms like corals and shellfish to build their structures. This can lead to reduced biodiversity as these organisms form the foundation of marine food webs. Additionally, changes in pH levels can alter species interactions and behaviors, potentially leading to declines in fish populations that depend on healthy coral reefs for habitat and food.
• Evaluate potential geoengineering solutions that could mitigate the effects of ocean acidification on marine environments.
  • Potential geoengineering solutions to mitigate ocean acidification include enhancing carbon capture techniques to reduce CO2 emissions or promoting methods like ocean alkalinity enhancement. By adding minerals to seawater, we could theoretically increase pH levels and counteract acidity. However, these approaches come with uncertainties and risks that need thorough assessment, as they could have unforeseen consequences on marine ecosystems and global biogeochemical cycles.

Related terms

Carbon Cycle: The process by which carbon is exchanged between the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, soil, and living organisms, playing a crucial role in regulating global climate.

Marine Calcifiers: Organisms such as corals, mollusks, and some plankton that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons, which are negatively impacted by ocean acidification.

pH Level: A measure of how acidic or basic a solution is, with lower pH values indicating higher acidity; ocean acidification leads to lower pH levels in ocean waters.