Ocean Acidification Lab Flashcard

Front

What is ocean acidification?

Back

Ocean acidification refers to the decrease in pH levels of the ocean caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, leading to increased acidity.

Front

How does carbon dioxide (CO2) enter the ocean?

Back

CO2 enters the ocean primarily from the atmosphere.

Front

What process in the ocean produces carbon dioxide (CO2)?

Back

Cellular respiration of marine organisms produces CO2 in the ocean.

Front

What effect does increased acidity have on marine organisms with calcium carbonate shells?

Back

Very slight increases in the acidity of seawater is unhealthy and stresses marine organisms that make shells or exoskeletons made of calcium carbonate.

Front

What is calcium carbonate and why is it important?

Back

Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound needed by corals, mollusks, sponges, and crustaceans to make their skeletons, shells, spicules, and structures.

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic), with 7 being neutral.

Front

What are some sources of carbon dioxide in the ocean?

Back

Sources of CO2 in the ocean include atmospheric absorption, cellular respiration of marine organisms, and decomposition of organic matter.

Front

How does ocean acidification affect coral reefs?

Back

Ocean acidification can weaken coral reefs by reducing the availability of calcium carbonate, which corals need to build their skeletons.

Front

What role do aquatic plants play in carbon dioxide levels in the ocean?

Back

Aquatic plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, which can help mitigate ocean acidification.

Front

What is the relationship between ocean temperature and acidification?

Back

Warmer ocean temperatures can increase the rate of CO2 absorption and exacerbate ocean acidification.