Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of Earth’s oceans, caused primarily by uptake of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. As CO₂ dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, making the ocean more acidic. This process threatens marine life, especially organisms like corals and shellfish that rely on calcium carbonate to build shells and skeletons, ultimately disrupting entire marine ecosystems and food chains.
Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification refers to the ongoing decrease in the pH of Earth’s oceans, caused primarily by uptake of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. As CO₂ dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, making the ocean more acidic. This process threatens marine life, especially organisms like corals and shellfish that rely on calcium carbonate to build shells and skeletons, ultimately disrupting entire marine ecosystems and food chains.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Understand how increased atmospheric CO2 makes seawater more acidic.
- Learn which marine organisms are most affected by lower pH (corals, mollusks, and some phytoplankton).
- Explore potential impacts on marine ecosystems, food webs, and coastal economies.
- Recognize how scientists monitor ocean pH and what actions can reduce acidification risks.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is ocean acidification?
Ocean acidification is the long-term decrease in seawater pH and changes in carbonate chemistry caused by the ocean absorbing excess CO2 from the atmosphere, reducing carbonate ions needed to build shells and skeletons.
What causes ocean acidification?
Rising atmospheric CO2 from burning fossil fuels dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid that lowers pH and reduces carbonate ions.
Why does ocean acidification matter for calcifying organisms?
Lower carbonate availability makes it harder for organisms like corals, mollusks, and some plankton to calcify, slowing growth and weakening shells.
How can ocean acidification affect coral reefs and fisheries?
Weakening corals and shells can disrupt habitats and food webs, reduce biodiversity, and impact coastal fisheries and protection.
What can be done to address ocean acidification?
Reduce global CO2 emissions, protect and manage marine ecosystems, support monitoring, and advance research to understand and mitigate impacts.