ocean acidification Flashcards
(31 cards)
What is ocean acidification?
Ocean acidification is the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption.
True or False: Ocean acidification is solely caused by pollution.
False: Ocean acidification is primarily caused by the absorption of atmospheric CO2.
What gas is primarily responsible for ocean acidification?
Carbon dioxide (CO2).
Fill in the blank: The increase in CO2 levels in the atmosphere leads to a decrease in __________ in ocean waters.
pH levels.
How does the greenhouse effect contribute to ocean acidification?
The greenhouse effect increases atmospheric CO2 levels, which are then absorbed by the ocean.
What is the chemical reaction that occurs when CO2 is absorbed in seawater?
CO2 + H2O ⇌ H2CO3 (carbonic acid).
True or False: Ocean acidification can have harmful effects on marine life.
True.
Which marine organisms are particularly affected by ocean acidification?
Organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as corals and shellfish.
What is the effect of decreased pH on coral reefs?
Decreased pH can lead to weakened coral structures and reduced calcification rates.
Multiple Choice: What is a potential economic impact of ocean acidification?
A) Increased fish populations B) Decline in shellfish industries C) Improved coral health D) None of the above
Fill in the blank: Ocean acidification is often referred to as the __________ of the oceans.
other CO2 problem.
What role do phytoplankton play in ocean acidification?
Phytoplankton can help absorb CO2, but their health is also affected by changing ocean chemistry.
How does climate change indirectly affect ocean acidification?
Climate change can alter ocean temperatures and circulation patterns, affecting CO2 absorption.
True or False: Ocean acidification is expected to slow down in the coming decades.
False: It is expected to continue as atmospheric CO2 levels rise.
What is the impact of ocean acidification on food webs?
It can disrupt food webs by affecting primary producers and the species that depend on them.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a consequence of ocean acidification?
A) Increased coral growth B) Altered predator-prey relationships C) Reduced biodiversity D) Impaired shell formation
What is the projected change in ocean pH by the end of the century if current CO2 emissions continue?
A decline of 0.3 to 0.4 units.
Fill in the blank: The process of ocean acidification can lead to __________ in marine ecosystems.
loss of biodiversity.
What is the relationship between ocean temperature and CO2 absorption?
Warmer waters hold less CO2, which can reduce the ocean’s ability to absorb atmospheric CO2.
True or False: Ocean acidification can affect human health.
True: It can impact food sources and water quality.
What are some mitigation strategies to combat ocean acidification?
Reducing CO2 emissions, protecting marine ecosystems, and enhancing carbon capture.
Multiple Choice: Which region is most vulnerable to ocean acidification?
A) Arctic B) Equatorial C) Tropical D) All of the above
Fill in the blank: The phenomenon of __________ is when ocean waters become more acidic due to increased CO2.
ocean acidification.
What impact does ocean acidification have on the fishing industry?
It can reduce fish populations and affect commercially important species.
