Question

Rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide will cause which of the following changes in oceanic chemistry? Briefly explain why this change is a concern.

a) Increased ocean acidity, which can harm marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells.
b) Decreased ocean salinity, leading to disrupted ocean currents.
c) Reduced ocean temperature, affecting marine ecosystems.
d) Enhanced growth of coral reefs due to increased CO2 availability.

Answer 1

Increased atmospheric CO2 levels will lead to higher ocean acidity, negatively impacting marine organisms, particularly those relying on calcification, and thus affecting marine ecosystems and food webs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide will cause an increase in ocean acidity, which is a major concern. The phenomenon, known as ocean acidification, occurs when CO2 from the atmosphere dissolves in ocean waters, leading to a decrease in the pH levels of the oceans. This acidic environment harms marine life, in particular organisms with calcium carbonate shells such as corals and shellfish, by interfering with their ability to calcify, which is essential for their survival and growth. As a result, it could also have a ripple effect on the entire marine food web and ecosystems that rely on these species for sustenance and habitat respectively.