Ocean Acidification

Definition

Ocean acidification refers to the process in which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, which dissolves in seawater to form carbonic acid. This phenomenon significantly impacts marine ecosystems and global systems, altering the chemical composition of seawater and affecting various biological processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ocean acidification is primarily driven by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, which increases atmospheric CO2 levels.
2. As the ocean absorbs more CO2, its pH level drops, leading to more acidic conditions that can harm marine life, especially organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons.
3. The changes in ocean chemistry can disrupt food webs and affect species that are vital for ecosystem balance, including coral reefs and shellfish populations.
4. Polar regions are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification due to their colder waters, which absorb CO2 more efficiently than warmer waters.
5. Monitoring ocean acidification requires sophisticated instrumentation, including sensors and buoys, to measure changes in pH and carbonate chemistry across different marine environments.

Review Questions

• How does ocean acidification affect the calcification process in marine organisms?
  • Ocean acidification reduces the availability of carbonate ions needed for calcification, which is crucial for organisms like corals and shellfish. As pH levels drop due to increased CO2 absorption, these organisms struggle to build and maintain their calcium carbonate structures. This impairment can lead to weaker shells and skeletons, making them more susceptible to predation and environmental stresses.
• What role does the carbon cycle play in ocean acidification and how does this impact marine biodiversity?
  • The carbon cycle is integral to understanding ocean acidification since it describes how carbon moves through various Earth systems. When CO2 from the atmosphere dissolves into the ocean, it alters the chemical balance of seawater. This increase in acidity negatively impacts marine biodiversity by threatening species that depend on stable pH levels for survival. Coral reefs, essential for supporting diverse marine life, are particularly at risk as they require specific conditions for growth.
• Evaluate the implications of ocean acidification on global climate regulation and the potential long-term effects on marine ecosystems.
  • Ocean acidification has significant implications for global climate regulation as it affects the ocean's ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. A decrease in the health of marine ecosystems due to acidification could lead to diminished biodiversity and altered food webs. Long-term effects may include reduced fish populations and declining coral reefs, which are critical for carbon storage and habitat provision. The interconnectedness of these changes could disrupt not only marine systems but also have cascading effects on human economies reliant on healthy oceans.

Related terms

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

Calcification:

The process by which marine organisms, such as corals and shellfish, build their calcium carbonate structures, which can be adversely affected by decreased pH levels due to ocean acidification.

Biodiversity Loss: The decline in the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, often resulting from environmental stressors like ocean acidification that threaten species survival and ecosystem health.