Question

Why are hydrogen ions bad for marine organisms

Answer 1

The presence of free hydrogen ions (H +) lowers the pH of the ocean, increasing acidity (this does not mean that seawater is acidic yet; it is still alkaline, with a pH higher than 8). Marine calcifying organisms, such as mollusks and corals, are especially vulnerable because they rely on calcium carbonate to build shells and skeletons.

Answer 2

negative effects of hydrogen ions on marine organisms. Hydrogen ions are produced when carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, lowering the pH and increasing the acidity of the ocean. This process is called ocean acidification and it has harmful consequences for many marine animals, especially those that rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons, such as corals, oysters, and snails. Hydrogen ions reduce the availability of carbonate ions in the water, making it harder for these animals to grow and survive. Ocean acidification also affects other aspects of marine life, such as reproduction, behavior, metabolism, and biodiversity.