Final answer:
Warmer oceans absorb less carbon dioxide, leading to reduced efficiency in removing this gas from the atmosphere, exacerbating the greenhouse effect, and causing ocean acidification that harms marine ecosystems. The correct option is option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks how the warming climate of Earth affects the ability of the oceans to remove carbon from the atmosphere. The correct answer to this question is option a) Warmer oceans absorb less carbon dioxide.
When oceans warm due to climate change, their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere decreases. This is because gases, including carbon dioxide, are less soluble in warmer water.
Consequently, as the Earth's climate warms and the ocean temperatures rise, the ocean becomes less efficient at removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, exacerbating the greenhouse effect. Moreover, increased levels of carbon dioxide absorbed by the oceans lead to ocean acidification, which affects marine life and ecosystems.