Question

Explain how a CO₂ molecule that diffuses into the ocean in the North Atlantic Ocean could eventually diffuse into the atmosphere off the eastern coast of Africa hundreds of years later?

Answer 1

A CO₂ molecule diffuses from the North Atlantic Ocean to the atmosphere near Africa through the global carbon cycle, facilitated by ocean currents and mixing processes. Increased atmospheric CO₂ causes ocean acidification, affecting marine life's ability to form exoskeletons.

Step-by-step explanation:

A CO₂ molecule that diffuses into the ocean in the North Atlantic can eventually be released into the atmosphere off the eastern coast of Africa through the global carbon cycle. Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolves into the ocean water and forms ionic compounds, influencing the level of CO₂ in both the atmosphere and the ocean. Over time, currents and mixing processes redistribute the carbon-rich water across the globe, releasing CO₂ back into the atmosphere in different locations, such as off the eastern coast of Africa. Unfortunately, increased levels of atmospheric CO₂, largely from fossil fuel combustion, have led to ocean acidification, which makes it difficult for marine life, such as corals, to produce their exoskeletons made of calcium carbonate.